IMMUNOGLOBULIN A Meaning and
Definition
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Immunoglobulin A (IgA) is a protein molecule that belongs to the class of immunoglobulins, which are antibodies produced by the immune system to recognize and neutralize harmful pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and other foreign substances. IgA is the most abundant antibody found in mucosal tissues, such as the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts, as well as in saliva, tears, and breast milk.
The structure of IgA includes two antibody units, known as monomers, which are linked by a protein called the J chain. IgA can exist in different forms: as a monomeric form found in the blood, or as a dimeric form, also called secretory IgA (sIgA), which is predominant in secretions. The dimeric form of IgA allows it to be transported across the mucosal surfaces, providing protection against infections in these areas.
The main function of IgA is to prevent pathogens from entering the body and causing infections at the mucosal surfaces. It achieves this by neutralizing the pathogens and also by inhibiting their adherence to the mucosal tissues. IgA can also activate other components of the immune system, such as white blood cells, to help eliminate the pathogens.
Deficiencies or abnormalities in IgA production can lead to increased susceptibility to respiratory and gastrointestinal infections. On the other hand, excessive production of IgA can be associated with certain autoimmune diseases. Overall, IgA plays a critical role in maintaining the body's defense against infections at mucosal surfaces.
Common Misspellings for IMMUNOGLOBULIN A
- ummunoglobulin a
- jmmunoglobulin a
- kmmunoglobulin a
- ommunoglobulin a
- 9mmunoglobulin a
- 8mmunoglobulin a
- inmunoglobulin a
- ikmunoglobulin a
- ijmunoglobulin a
- imnunoglobulin a
- imkunoglobulin a
- imjunoglobulin a
- immynoglobulin a
- immhnoglobulin a
- immjnoglobulin a
- imminoglobulin a
- imm8noglobulin a
- imm7noglobulin a
- immuboglobulin a
Etymology of IMMUNOGLOBULIN A
The word "immunoglobulin" comes from two components: "immuno-" and "globulin".
The term "immuno-" is derived from the Latin word "immunis", which means "exempt" or "free from". It is associated with the immune system and refers to protection against diseases through the production of specific antibodies.
"Globulin", on the other hand, originates from the word "globulus", also from Latin, which means "small ball" or "sphere". It refers to a group of proteins found in the blood plasma or serum that are soluble and globular in shape.
Lastly, "A" is added as a suffix to the term "immunoglobulin" to specifically refer to the subtype or class of immunoglobulin called "IgA", which is one of the five main types of antibodies present in the human body.
Similar spelling words for IMMUNOGLOBULIN A
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