Following exposure to a novel pathogen, the adaptive immune system activates. Why does isotype switching enhance antibody function?

💡 Explanation

Isotype switching diversifies the antibody Fc region, because each isotype (e.g., IgG, IgA, IgE) binds different effector molecules and receptors, optimizing immune responses in diverse tissues and infection types. Therefore, isotype switching optimizes effector function, rather than solely enhancing neutralization or speed, or reducing degradation.

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