Kappa immunoglobulin refers to a specific type of immunoglobulin, also known as an antibody, that belongs to the class of immunoglobulins called Igκ. Immunoglobulins are proteins produced by plasma cells, a type of white blood cell, as part of the body's immune response against foreign substances known as antigens.
Kappa immunoglobulin is characterized by its specific structure, consisting of two heavy chains and two light chains, one of which is called the kappa light chain. These light chains can be either kappa or lambda types. In kappa immunoglobulin, the light chains are composed of kappa type, hence the name.
The main function of kappa immunoglobulin is to recognize and bind to specific antigens, such as bacteria, viruses, or other foreign substances, in order to mark them for destruction by the immune system. This binding process, known as antigen-antibody interaction, triggers various immune responses, including the activation of other immune cells like macrophages, complement system activation, and neutralization of toxins.
Kappa immunoglobulin is involved in various immune processes, including both innate and adaptive immunity. It plays a crucial role in the clearance of pathogens, prevention of infections, and maintenance of immunological memory.
The measurement of kappa immunoglobulin levels in the blood can provide valuable information for diagnosing and monitoring various medical conditions, such as autoimmune diseases, immune deficiencies, and certain types of cancer.
