Immunoglobulin: meaning, definitions and examples
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immunoglobulin
[ ɪˌmjunəˈɡlɒb.jʊ.lɪn ]
biological molecule
Immunoglobulin, also known as antibody, is a type of glycoprotein produced by plasma cells (a type of white blood cell). Its primary function is to identify and neutralize foreign objects like bacteria and viruses. There are five main classes of immunoglobulins: IgA, IgD, IgE, IgG, and IgM, each serving different roles in the immune response. Immunoglobulins play a crucial role in the body's immune defense system, helping to protect against infections and diseases.
Synonyms
antibody, immune globulin, serum globulin
Examples of usage
- The immunoglobulin levels in the patient's blood were tested.
- Immunoglobulins are critical for vaccine efficacy.
- Research shows that IgA is important for mucosal immunity.
- Allergies can often be linked to IgE immunoglobulin responses.
Translations
Translations of the word "immunoglobulin" in other languages:
🇵🇹 imunoglobulina
🇮🇳 इम्युनोग्लोबुलिन
🇩🇪 Immunglobulin
🇮🇩 imunoglobulin
🇺🇦 імуноглобулін
🇵🇱 immunoglobulina
🇯🇵 免疫グロブリン
🇫🇷 immunoglobuline
🇪🇸 inmunoglobulina
🇹🇷 immünoglobulin
🇰🇷 면역글로불린
🇸🇦 الأجسام المضادة
🇨🇿 imunoglobulin
🇸🇰 imunoglobulín
🇨🇳 免疫球蛋白
🇸🇮 imunoglobulin
🇮🇸 ónæmisglóbúlín
🇰🇿 иммуноглобулин
🇬🇪 იმუნოგლობულინი
🇦🇿 immunoglobulin
🇲🇽 inmunoglobulina
Etymology
The term 'immunoglobulin' is derived from two components: 'immune,' which refers to the body's defense system against pathogens, and 'globulin,' a term used for a group of proteins present in blood serum. The history of immunoglobulins dates back to the early 20th century, particularly with the pioneering work of Emil von Behring, who discovered that serum from immunized animals could transfer immunity to other animals. This led to the identification of antibodies in the serum. The molecular structure of immunoglobulins was elucidated shortly after, resulting in their classification into five major classes based on their structure and function. The understanding of immunoglobulins has been pivotal in immunology, allowing for advancements in vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics.