Whatnhappens if your antibody does not function properly?

If an antibody does not function properly, it can have a number of negative effects on the body's immune system.

- Reduced immunity: A non-functional antibody cannot bind to and neutralize antigens, which means that the body is less able to fight off infection. This can lead to an increased risk of developing diseases, such as bacterial and viral infections.

- Autoimmunity: In some cases, non-functional antibodies can bind to the body's own tissues, leading to an autoimmune reaction. This can cause a variety of symptoms, depending on the affected tissue. For example, if non-functional antibodies bind to the thyroid gland, it can lead to the development of Graves' disease, which is characterized by an overproduction of thyroid hormones.

- Inflammation: Non-functional antibodies can also trigger inflammation, which is a natural response to injury or infection. However, chronic inflammation can damage tissues and organs, and it is associated with a number of diseases, such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.

- Allergic reactions: In some cases, non-functional antibodies can cause allergic reactions. This occurs when the antibodies bind to allergens, such as pollen or dust mites, and trigger the release of histamine and other inflammatory mediators. Allergic reactions can range from mild (e.g., sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes) to severe (e.g., anaphylaxis, which is a life-threatening condition).

The severity of the effects of non-functional antibodies depends on a number of factors, including the type of antibody, the extent of the dysfunction, and the overall health of the individual.