Question

The subsequent stages of B cell development are:

1. Large Pre-B cell
2. Small Pre-B cell
3. Immature B cell
4. Mature B cell.
In terms of L chains, when is the VJ rearrangement occurring?

a) Large Pre-B cell
b) Small Pre-B cell
c) Immature B cell
d) Mature B cell

Answer 1

The VJ rearrangement for light chains in B cells occurs during the Small Pre-B cell stage. This genetic recombination is crucial for creating diverse antibodies that can recognize various antigens.

Step-by-step explanation:

The VJ rearrangement for light chains in B cells occurs at the stage of the Small Pre-B cell. During the maturation of B cells, DNA recombinase excises V (variable) and J (joining) segments from the light chain gene. Only one V and one J segment are spliced together, which leads to a unique variable region in the light chain of each B cell's antibody. This genetic rearrangement is what provides the diversity necessary for the immune system to recognize a multitude of antigens. The formation of millions of unique antigen-binding sites happens before the B cells become mature and ready for activation.