A Case Of Convergence: Why Did a Simple Alternative to Canonical Antibodies Arise in Sharks and Camels?
2011
Why Sharks and Camels Have Unique Antibodies
publication
Author Information
Author(s): Martin F. Flajnik, Nick Deschacht, Serge Muyldermans
Hypothesis
What explains the evolutionary convergence of functional heavy-chain-only antibodies in sharks and camels?
Conclusion
Sharks and camels have developed similar types of antibodies that lack light chains, suggesting a remarkable case of evolutionary convergence.
Supporting Evidence
- Both sharks and camels have developed heavy-chain-only antibodies that function effectively.
- The emergence of these antibodies is believed to be a response to similar evolutionary pressures.
- The antibodies in both species are capable of binding to a wide range of antigens despite their simpler structure.
Takeaway
Sharks and camels both have special antibodies that are simpler than usual ones, and they help these animals fight off germs.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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