light chain

noun

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

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.
Compare heavy chain

First recorded in 1960–65

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

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.

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

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

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.

April 25, 2024firkin

[fur-kin ]

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