Lattice theory
Definition
The structural explanation for precipitation proposed by Marrack in 1934. Multivalent antigens and bivalent antibodies can each bind more than one partner, generating a three-dimensional network. When the network grows beyond solubility limits, it precipitates.
Related terms
- Double immunodiffusion (Ouchterlony)
- A gel diffusion method in which both antigen and antibody diffuse toward each other from separate wells in agar. Precipitin bands form...
- Equivalence zone
- The range of antigen-to-antibody ratios at which binding sites on both molecules are maximally cross-linked, producing the largest lattice and the heaviest...
- Immunoelectrophoresis
- A two-step technique: proteins are first separated by electrophoresis in agar gel, then antiserum diffuses from a parallel trough and forms precipitin...
- Precipitin
- An antibody that forms a visible precipitate when it reacts with its specific soluble antigen. The term is used interchangeably with precipitating...
- Ring precipitation test
- A technique in which antiserum is placed in a narrow capillary tube and antigen solution is layered carefully on top. A ring...
Explained in
- Precipitation Reactions: Principles and ApplicationsThe structural explanation for precipitation proposed by Marrack in 1934. Multivalent antigens and bivalent antibodies can each bind more than one partner, gen...