Ever wondered what the difference is between IgG, IgA, IgM, and IgE? I break it down in this post!
IgM are 5 antibody molecules clipped together in a star formation and are the first class to be produced after exposure to an antigen. They are great at activating the complement system and neutralizing antigens because of their size. IgM have a very short half-life, however, only lasting a few days.
IgG antibodies are the most abundant in the blood stream and act as a bridge between immune cell and antigen. They are also able to opsonize (bind and cover) the antigen leading to neutralization. These have a half-life of several weeks and are able to cross the placenta.
IgA antibodies are two clipped molecules end-to-end and guard the mucosal surfaces of our body against invaders (respiratory, reproductive, and digestive). IgA is resistant to stomach acid and ushers invaders out of the body when bound. This antibody is also secreted in breast milk to help coat the baby’s gut mucosa.
Finally, IgE antibodies are known to be developed after exposure to an allergen. After repeat exposures these antibodies bind to the surface of mast cells signaling for their degranulation and release of histamine into the surrounding area. IgE are responsible for allergies and anaphylactic shock as a defense against parasites.
My hope is that this differentiation will help you further understand what antibodies do and give you the toolset to breakdown immune data that you may see!
Posted on Instagram on April 5, 2021.