Immunoglobulin lambda variable 5-39 (IGLV5-39)

Immunoglobulin lambda variable 5-39 is one of the gene segments encoding the variable domain of the lambda light chain in antibodies. These genes undergo somatic recombination in B lymphocytes to generate the immense diversity of antibodies required for specific antigen recognition. The variable domain, together with a heavy chain variable domain, forms the antigen-binding site of the antibody. Aberrant clonal expansion of B cells expressing particular immunoglobulin variable genes can be associated with malignancy or autoimmune disease. Immunoglobulin lambda variable genes are markers of B cell clonality and are important in adaptive immunity, but are not direct targets for small-molecule drugs or biologics unless engineered as part of bespoke therapeutic antibodies.

Other names

IGLV5-39Immunoglobulin lambda variable region 5-39LV539_HUMAN