How is somatic hypermutation related to antibody production?

Somatic hypermutation plays a crucial role in improving the affinity of antibodies produced by B cells during the adaptive immune response. This process occurs after B cells are activated by an antigen and proliferate; it introduces point mutations at a high rate in the variable regions of the immunoglobulin genes.

As a result of these mutations, some B cells will produce antibodies with higher affinities for the antigen, while others may produce antibodies with lower affinities. B cells are then selected for their ability to bind to the antigen; those with higher-affinity receptors have a better chance of survival, proliferation, and differentiation into antibody-secreting plasma cells. This mechanism is essential for generating high-affinity antibodies in the later stages of the immune response, known as affinity maturation.

Thus, the relationship between somatic hypermutation and antibody production lies in its role in enhancing the specificity and effectiveness of the antibody response, ultimately leading to improved affinity for the antigen encountered.