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- Antibodies are immunoglobulins (Ig) that bind to an antigen or foreign substance.
- Humoral immunity involves antibodies.
- This binding causes a series of events that results in the lysis or phagocytosis (eating up) of the foreign invader.
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- There are five types of immunoglobulins:
- IgA " in mucous secretions (tears, saliva). Protects us from cold viruses
- IgD " on " cells
- IgM " best agglutinating and complement activating antibody
- IgE " elevated in parasitic infections and allergic reactions
- IgG - only class to cross the placenta.
- Provides immunity to the fetus
- Involved in many functions
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