light chain

noun

1. Immunology. either of an identical pair of polypeptides in the antibody molecule that lie parallel to the upper parts of the heavy chain pair and are half the molecular weight.

light chain

1. The smaller of the two types of polypeptide chains in an antibody molecule. A light chain consists of an antigen-binding portion with a variable amino acid sequence, and a constant region with an amino acid sequence that is relatively unchanging. The light chains are attached to the heavy chains so that the variable regions of both lie alongside each other.
2. Compare heavy chain

Word History and Origins

Origin of light chain¹

First recorded in 1960–65

Example Sentences

The trap was rather a poor one with a very light chain for a bear trap.

From Project Gutenberg

To prevent such a catastrophe, a light chain or cord was worn, under or over the dress, at the level of the knees or just above.

From Project Gutenberg

I had one of these fastened with a long light chain, and had an hut built to shelter him.

From Project Gutenberg

Women were employed extensively in the light chain trade, also in lacquering in the brass trade, and in many other occupations.

From Project Gutenberg

At the head of them was a tall, slender knight clad in light chain armor, his head covered only by a steel cap or bascinet.

From Project Gutenberg