Question:

Given below are two statements:
Assertion A: Polyclonal antibodies bind to the same antigen but recognize different epitopes.
Reason R: Polyclonal antibodies are produced by different B cell clones in the body.

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Polyclonal = Many B-cell clones = Many epitopes. Monoclonal = One clone = One epitope.
Updated On: May 14, 2026
  • Both A and R are correct and R is the correct explanation of A
  • Both A and R are correct but R is not the correct explanation of A
  • A is correct but R is not correct
  • A is not correct but R is correct
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation


Step 1: Concept

When an antigen enters the body, it often has multiple different structural features called epitopes.

Step 2: Meaning

Each individual B-cell is programmed to recognize only one specific epitope.

Step 3: Analysis

A complex antigen will trigger multiple different B-cells to proliferate and produce antibodies. Because these antibodies come from different B-cell clones, the resulting mixture is called "polyclonal." These antibodies all target the same overall antigen but bind to its various distinct epitopes.

Step 4: Conclusion

The assertion is true, and the reason correctly explains why the antibodies recognize multiple epitopes. Final Answer: (A)
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