Immunoglobulins, also known as antibodies, are essential glycoproteins that function to protect the body against bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
Here's a more detailed breakdown of their function:
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Neutralization: Antibodies can bind to pathogens, such as viruses and bacteria, preventing them from infecting cells. This process effectively neutralizes the pathogen, rendering it harmless.
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Opsonization: Antibodies can coat pathogens, marking them for destruction by phagocytes (immune cells that engulf and destroy foreign particles). This process, called opsonization, greatly enhances phagocytosis.
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Complement Activation: Certain classes of antibodies can activate the complement system, a cascade of proteins that leads to the lysis (destruction) of pathogens and the recruitment of inflammatory cells.
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Antibody-Dependent Cell-Mediated Cytotoxicity (ADCC): Antibodies can bind to infected cells and recruit immune cells, such as natural killer (NK) cells, to kill the infected cells.
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Prevention of Adhesion: Antibodies can bind to pathogens or infected cells, preventing them from adhering to host tissues and thus inhibiting infection or spread.
Consequences of Immunoglobulin Deficiency:
When there is a deficiency of immunoglobulins, the body becomes highly susceptible to infections. Individuals with antibody deficiency disorders, such as X-linked agammaglobulinemia, experience recurrent and severe infections because their immune system is unable to effectively combat pathogens.
In summary, immunoglobulins are crucial components of the adaptive immune system, playing a vital role in recognizing and neutralizing threats from a wide range of pathogens to maintain health and prevent disease.
