Explore the roles and importance of various antibodies such as IgG, IgM, and IgA in the human immune system, and how they protect the body from infections and diseases
Antibodies play a crucial role in the body’s immune response, acting as a key defense mechanism against pathogens like bacteria and viruses. These large proteins are produced by the immune system upon detecting antigens, which are foreign substances that trigger an immune reaction. Among the different types of antibodies, Immunoglobulins G (IgG), M (IgM), and A (IgA) are the most common and vital for maintaining health.
What are Antibodies?
Antibodies, also known as immunoglobulins, are specialized proteins that the immune system produces in response to antigens. They help identify and neutralize foreign invaders such as bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. Each antibody is unique and designed to target a specific antigen, making them essential for the body’s ability to fight infections and diseases.
Immunoglobulin G (IgG) – The Protector
IgG is the most abundant type of antibody found in all body fluids. It plays a critical role in defending against bacterial and viral infections by recognizing and binding to pathogens, thus neutralizing their ability to harm the body. IgG antibodies are also essential in providing long-term immunity after an infection or vaccination, making them crucial for immune memory.
Immunoglobulin M (IgM) – The First Responder
IgM is primarily found in the blood and lymph fluid and is the first type of antibody produced in response to an infection. It plays a pivotal role in the early stages of the immune response by quickly recognizing and binding to antigens. Although IgM antibodies are larger and less specific than IgG, their rapid production and activation help provide the initial defense against infections, paving the way for more targeted immune responses.
Immunoglobulin A (IgA) – The Guardian of Mucosal Surfaces
IgA is mainly located in the mucous membranes of the nose, ears, eyes, respiratory tract, and digestive tract, as well as in bodily fluids like saliva and tears. It plays a crucial role in protecting the body’s entrances from invasion by pathogens. By binding to antigens on pathogens before they can enter the body, IgA helps prevent infections at their entry points, safeguarding the body’s internal environments.
Contract Laboratory frequently works with companies looking to outsource their Antibody Testing and Research Studies.
Antibody projects that we have helped facilitate:
- A clinical laboratory is needed for blood testing for H-Y antibodies.
- Asia serology laboratory needed for Rabies Serological Test / Antibody Titer
- Blood center needs a bioanalytical laboratory for High-Volume complete whole blood and plasma testing of up to a million samples a day including all CBC, antibody, biomarker testing, and virus (including confirmatory)
- Bioanalytical Laboratory needed for monoclonal antibody testing according to EMA and FDA guidelines: Testing of monoclonal antibody for effector function according to Testing of monoclonal antibody preparations for Fc gamma receptor interactions Testing of monoclonal antibody preparations for FcRn interaction
- Laboratory needed for the development of companion animal lateral flow antibody and antigen diagnostic test products including Canine Heartworm, Lyme disease, Ehrlichia canis, Anaplasmosis, and in the feline, FeLV and FI . Need USDA-required testing for sensitivity, specificity, and inter-laboratory validations with securing US source reagents (whole blood, plasma, and serum) In most cases the assays detect antibodies. In a small number of cases, we will be detecting antigens.
- Bioanalytical laboratory needed for Imaged Capillary Isoelectric Focusing iCIEF for monoclonal antibody mAb identification.
Are you a laboratory that works with Antibodies? View more Antibody Test Requests
Do you work for a pharmaceutical, life science, healthcare facility or other company that needs a laboratory to perform Antibody Testing Research Studies? If so, we would be happy to help. Call us at 1-855-377-6821 or Submit an Antibody Test Request.
