"Antibody"

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Antibodies, or immunoglobulins (Ig), are Y-shaped proteins produced by B cells that play a crucial role in the immune system by identifying and neutralizing pathogens. Here’s an in-depth look:

Types of Antibodies and Their Functions:

  1. IgG
    • Function: Provides long-term immunity after infection or vaccination.
    • Role: Neutralizes pathogens, activates complement, and facilitates opsonization (marking pathogens for destruction by phagocytes).
    • Crosses placenta: Offers passive immunity to the fetus.
  2. IgA
    • Function: Protects mucosal surfaces (e.g., in the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and urogenital tracts).
    • Role: Prevents pathogen adhesion to epithelial cells and is found in secretions like saliva, tears, and breast milk.
  3. IgM
    • Function: First antibody produced during an immune response.
    • Role: Strongly activates complement and forms pentamers for efficient pathogen agglutination.
  4. IgE
    • Function: Mediates allergic reactions and responds to parasitic infections.
    • Role: Binds to mast cells and basophils, triggering histamine release upon antigen detection.
  5. IgD
    • Function: Primarily involved in the initiation of B cell activation.
    • Role: Acts as a receptor on immature B cells.

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