What is antibody class switching?

Antibody class switching is a biological process in which B cells change the type of antibody they produce without altering the specificity for the antigen. This occurs after initial exposure to an antigen and involves the rearrangement of the constant region of the antibody gene, allowing the B cell to produce different classes of antibodies, such as IgM to IgG or IgA. Class switching enhances the immune response by enabling antibodies to perform various functions more effectively, tailored to different types of pathogens. This process is crucial for adaptive immunity, providing long-lasting protection against infections.