Table 2 |
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Major functions of human Ig antibodies [5]. |
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Ig antibody |
Function |
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IgM |
First immunoglobulin (Ig) expressed during B cell development (primary response; early antibody) • Opsonizing (coating) antigen for destruction • Complement fixation |
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IgG |
Main Ig during secondary immune response • Only antibody capable of crossing the placental barrier • Neutralization of toxins and viruses • Opsonizing (coating) antigen for destruction • Complement fixation |
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IgD |
Function unclear; appears to be involved in homeostasis |
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IgA |
Mucosal response; protects mucosal surfaces from toxins, viruses and bacteria through either direct neutralization or prevention of binding to mucosal surface |
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IgE |
Associated with hypersensitivity and allergic reactions • Plays a role in immune response to parasites |
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Warrington et al. Allergy, Asthma & Clinical Immunology 2011 7(Suppl 1):S1 doi:10.1186/1710-1492-7-S1-S1 |
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