IgG, IgM, IgA, IgE and IgD differ in structure, location and function.
IgM: first, pentameric, good at complement activation. IgG: most abundant, crosses the placenta. IgA: secreted in mucus and breast milk. IgE: allergy and parasites. IgD: B cell receptor.
IgG has four subclasses; IgA is a dimer with a secretory piece. IgM is first made in infection and used to date infections. Class switching is directed by cytokines.
Example: maternal IgG gives newborns passive immunity.
IgG, IgM, IgA, IgE and IgD differ in structure, location and function.
Antibody Classes is one of the 52 topics in Immunology & Disease. It is rated Intermediate, so it suits learners who already know the core vocabulary. Related topics in this area include Active and Passive Immunity, B Lymphocytes, White Blood Cells.
Breast milk IgA protects the infant gut.
Work through the Beginner topics in Immunology & Disease first, such as Immune System, Viruses, Innate Immunity, then return to Antibody Classes. Intermediate topics assume the Beginner vocabulary.
The closest topics to Antibody Classes are Active and Passive Immunity, B Lymphocytes, White Blood Cells, Complement System. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Antibody Classes. To practise the whole of Immunology & Disease, use the Immunology & Disease quiz.
Antibody Classes: IgG, IgM, IgA, IgE and IgD differ in structure, location and function. Active and Passive Immunity: Active immunity is made by your own response; passive immunity is received as ready-made antibodies. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Active and Passive Immunity and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Immunology & Disease quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.
Active immunity is made by your own response; passive immunity is received as ready-made antibodies.
🛡️ Immunology & DiseaseCells that mature into plasma cells producing antibodies and into memory B cells.
🛡️ Immunology & DiseaseLeukocytes including neutrophils, lymphocytes and macrophages that fight infection.
🛡️ Immunology & DiseaseA cascade of blood proteins that punches holes in microbes and enhances phagocytosis.
🛡️ Immunology & Disease