Age (months) Antibody level 0 10 3 6 6 2 9 0 The table shows the antibody level in a baby that received antibodies from its mother before birth. Why does th...
Question 1 Report
| Age (months) | Antibody level |
|---|---|
| 0 | 10 |
| 3 | 6 |
| 6 | 2 |
| 9 | 0 |
The table shows the antibody level in a baby that received antibodies from its mother before birth. Why does the level fall over the months shown?
Answer Details
The baby received these antibodies ready-made from its mother before birth, so they provide passive immunity. The baby's own body did not make them and does not produce replacements, so as the borrowed antibodies are gradually broken down their level falls and eventually reaches zero. The fall is not because the baby is being vaccinated, because the antibodies turn into pathogens, or because the baby keeps making more; it is simply that the baby does not replace these antibodies itself.
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