heavy chain

noun

, Immunology.

1. either of an identical pair of Y -shaped polypeptides that, together with the light chains, constitute the antibody molecule.

heavy chain

noun

1. immunol a type of polypeptide chain present in an immunoglobulin molecule

heavy chain

/ hĕv′ē /

1. The larger of the two types of polypeptide chains in an immunoglobulin molecule. A heavy chain consists of an antigen-binding portion having a variable amino acid sequence, and a constant region that is different for each class of imunoglobulin. Each heavy chain is one of a Y-shaped identical pair and is attached along its variable region to a smaller light chain.
2. Compare light chain

Word History and Origins

Origin of heavy chain¹

First recorded in 1960–65

Example Sentences

Alberto Román Gómez captured a playful stonechat perched beside a heavy chain, resembling a tiny warrior.

From BBC

The NYPD’s deputy commissioner for public information, Tarik Sheppard, who appeared with the mayor, held up a heavy chain.

From Seattle Times

Balancing using a band and exercise ball doing pushups with a heavy chain around the neck isn’t for everyone.

From Seattle Times

He was carrying a makeshift whip with a heavy chain and padlock.

From Seattle Times

He hung a heavy chain across his driveway to keep the teens from riding their bikes up to his door.

From Los Angeles Times