Anti-Kappa light chain antibody [RM103]

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

The kappa light chain alternatively known as Ig kappa chain is a component of immunoglobulins which are important for immune response. This protein has a molecular mass of roughly 25 kDa. It predominantly expresses in B lymphocytes where it pairs with heavy chains to form antibodies. Its expression is indicative of mature B cell functions serving as a marker for certain types of immune cells. The kappa light chain can also be detected outside of cells circulating in the blood and other bodily fluids.

Biological function summary

Kappa light chains are integral to the structure and function of antibodies. As part of the immunoglobulin molecule these chains contribute to antigen specificity by combining with heavy chains. Together they form the antigen-binding site. The kappa light chain is not part of a multiprotein complex; rather it directly participates in the antibody response. The presence of either kappa or lambda light chains can determine the particularities of antibody characteristics.

Pathways

Kappa light chains are elements of the immunological pathways notably the adaptive immune response. They interact with other proteins like immunoglobulin heavy chains to neutralize pathogens. The constant region of the kappa chain plays a role in determining the isotype of immunoglobulins which affects how antibodies mediate immune effector functions. Cross-linking of surface immunoglobulin by antigens can trigger B cell activation an essential step in the adaptive immune system.

Associated diseases and disorders

Kappa light chains associate closely with multiple myeloma and certain types of lymphomas. Overproduction of kappa light chains in these diseases results in high levels detectable in the serum or urine which can be used diagnostically as markers. Also dysregulation of kappa chains correlates with autoimmune disorders whereby the immune system incorrectly targets its tissues. In disorders like these the interplay between kappa and lambda chains often arises showing imbalance between the two as a sign of abnormal B cell activity.