It also plays a role in inflammatory reactions, hypersensitivity, and helminthic infections. IgE develops in the linings of the respiratory and intestinal tracts. It is present in high amounts in people with asthma, hay fever, and eczema. IgE levels rise when the body reacts to pollen, animal dander, and fungus spores. IgE is the least abundant antibody in the system, present in trace amounts in serum. That said, researchers must continue to investigate the link between IgD, immunity, and inflammation. Although IgD’s role in the immune response is unclear, an EU study in 2015 showed high levels of IgD in people with inflammatory autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus.Īnother 2016 study showed elevated levels of IgD in people with rheumatoid arthritis. It is present in the tissues that line the chest and abdomen. IgD is less understood compared with the other immunoglobulins. This is why healthcare professionals often link IgM deficiency to septicemia. It is largely present in the intravascular space and is responsible for protection against blood infection. IgM is the earliest antibody that the fetus produces before birth. It is comparatively heavier than the other antibodies. IgM is the largest antibody by size, but makes up only 10% of all immunoglobulins. IgA also works by neutralizing bacterial toxins and viruses. It prevents the attachment of bacteria and viruses to the body’s epithelial cells. IgA acts as the first line of defense for mucosal surfaces that come in contact with an antigen. It is commonly present in body secretions such as colostrum (first milk), saliva, sweat, and tears. IgA is the second most abundant antibody, making up about 10–15% of the immunoglobulins. It plays a key role in establishing post-infection immunity. IgG is a general-purpose antibody, protecting against infectious agents that are active in the blood and tissues. This provides natural passive immunity to the fetus. It is the only antibody that can travel across the placenta from parent to fetus.
IgG is the smallest and most abundant antibody in the system, consisting of about 80% of the immunoglobulins. There are five classifications of antibodies, each based on the antibodies’ structure and location in the body. The duration also differs from one disease to another.įurthermore, antibodies that develop in response to a measles infection will protect a person from a future case of measles but do not offer immunity from, for example, dengue or COVID-19. These memory cells ensure the body stays better prepared with a swifter immune response if ever exposed to the same antigen again.Īccording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the duration that antibodies offer immunity differs from person to person. This binding triggers the body’s immune response and mobilizes other cells to fight the invading antigen.Īfter the immune system tackles and eliminates the antigen, it creates antibody-producing memory cells, which remain active in the body long after recovery. Each antibody is specific and has one of two precise tasks: tag an invader for destruction by other immune cells, or destroy the invader by itself.Īn antibody can recognize and bind to an antigen in a specialized lock-and-key manner. Antibodies develop during an infection or in response to a vaccine.
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