Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

isotype

noun

/ˈaɪsəˌtaɪp/

Definition

An isotype is a variant of an organism or a group of organisms that share the same type of genetic information or characteristics but are distinct from other variants within a species.

Examples

Antibodies are classified into five isotypes, each with distinct roles in the immune system.
The isotype of a protein can influence its function and the response of the body to pathogens.

Meaning

In biology, isotypes refer to different forms of proteins or antibodies that have similar structures but can perform different functions, particularly in immune responses.