IgM
IgM or Immunoglobulin M is one of the several forms of antibody that are produced by the immune system of the body. It is the first antibody to be made by the body to fight a new infection.
Structure[edit | edit source]
IgM is a macromolecule that is composed of five or six units. Each unit is a Y-shaped structure that is made up of four protein chains: two identical heavy chains and two identical light chains. The heavy chains have a region known as the constant region, which determines the class of an immunoglobulin.
Function[edit | edit source]
IgM plays a crucial role in humoral immunity, which is the aspect of immunity that is mediated by secreted antibodies. It is the first antibody to appear in response to initial exposure to an antigen. The presence of IgM in the blood is a sign of recent infection, and it also activates the complement system.
Clinical significance[edit | edit source]
IgM levels in the blood can be measured to give doctors an indication of the body's response to infection. High levels of IgM can indicate a recent infection or exposure to an antigen. Low levels of IgM can indicate a weakened immune system or a deficiency in the production of antibodies.
See also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
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