IgA
IgA
Immunoglobulin A (IgA) is an antibody that plays a crucial role in the immune system's function in the mucous membranes. The amount of IgA produced in association with mucosal membranes is greater than all other types of antibody combined. In absolute terms, between three and five grams are secreted into the intestinal lumen each day. This represents up to 15% of total immunoglobulins produced throughout the body.
Pronunciation
IgA is pronounced as /ˌaɪdʒiːˈeɪ/
Etymology
The term "Immunoglobulin A" is derived from the Latin word "immunis" meaning exempt, and the Greek word "globus" meaning sphere. The "A" stands for the specific type of immunoglobulin.
Function
IgA has two subclasses (IgA1 and IgA2) and can be produced as a monomeric as well as a dimeric form. The IgA dimeric form is the most prevalent and is also called secretory IgA (sIgA). sIgA is the main immunoglobulin found in mucous secretions, including tears, saliva, sweat, colostrum and secretions from the genitourinary tract, gastrointestinal tract, prostate and respiratory epithelium. It is also found in small amounts in blood.
Related Terms
- Immunoglobulin: A protein produced by plasma cells and lymphocytes and characteristic of these types of cells. Immunoglobulins play an integral role in the body's immune response by recognizing and binding to particular antigens, such as bacteria or viruses, and aiding in their destruction.
- Antibody: A blood protein produced in response to and counteracting a specific antigen. Antibodies combine chemically with substances that the body recognizes as alien, such as bacteria, viruses, and foreign substances in the blood.
- Mucous Membrane: The moist, inner lining of some organs and body cavities (such as the nose, mouth, lungs, and stomach). Glands in the mucous membrane make mucus (a thick, slippery fluid). Also called mucosa.
- Immune System: The complex group of organs and cells that defends the body against infections and other diseases.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on IgA
- Wikipedia's article - IgA
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