Immunoglobulins and Antigens · Zoology

Haptens differ from complete antigens because they:

  1. Cannot bind to antibodies because they lack the molecular weight needed for recognition
  2. Are always proteins with a full complement of T-cell and B-cell epitopes
  3. Require a carrier protein to become immunogenic
  4. Are rapidly destroyed by circulating antibodies upon first exposure
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Correct answer: Require a carrier protein to become immunogenic

Haptens can bind to pre-existing antibodies but are too small to stimulate an immune response on their own. They must be coupled to a larger carrier protein (e.g., albumin) to elicit T-cell help and induce antibody production.

Difficulty: Medium Question 11 of 20

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