Journal of Molecular Pathology and Biochemistry
Open Access

Functions of Immunoglobulins and its Clinical Applications

Cristina Hagman^{* *}Correspondence: Cristina Hagman, Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA, Email:

Author info »

Description

Immunoglobulins, also known as antibodies, are essential components of the immune system that play a critical role in defending the body against a wide range of infections and foreign invaders. These specialized proteins are produced by white blood cells known as B cells and are crucial for mounting an effective immune response. Immunoglobulins come in various types and subclasses, each with distinct functions and properties.

Functions

Immunoglobulins function as the body's defense mechanisms against pathogens through various mechanisms:

Neutralization: Immunoglobulins can neutralize pathogens by binding to them and preventing them from entering or infecting host cells. This is particularly important in mucosal areas, where IgA antibodies can bind to viruses and bacteria, preventing their attachment to the epithelial cells and subsequent invasion.

Allergic reactions: IgE antibodies are central to allergic reactions. When an individual with allergies is exposed to an allergen, IgE antibodies bind to specific receptors on mast cells and basophils. This triggers the release of histamines and other chemicals, leading to the characteristic symptoms of allergies, such as itching, sneezing, and inflammation.

Immune memory: One of the most remarkable functions of immunoglobulins, particularly IgG, is their role in immune memory. When the immune system encounters a pathogen for the first time, it produces specific antibodies to fight the infection. After the infection is cleared, a small population of B cells, known as memory B cells, remains in the body. If the same pathogen enters the body again, these memory B cells quickly produce a robust immune response, generating a larger quantity of specific antibodies to eliminate the pathogen more effectively.

Clinical applications 

Due to their crucial role in the immune system, immunoglobulins have several clinical applications:

Immunodeficiency disorders: Some individuals are born with immunodeficiency disorders, where their immune system is unable to produce sufficient immunoglobulins. These individuals may receive immunoglobulin replacement therapy, where purified immunoglobulins are administered to enhance their immune response and protect them from infections [1-3].

Autoimmune diseases: In autoimmune diseases, the immune system mistakenly targets the body's own tissues. Immunoglobulins can be used in Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy to modulate the immune response and reduce inflammation in conditions like autoimmune neuropathies and rheumatoid arthritis.

Vaccines: Vaccines work by introducing harmless parts of pathogens or weakened pathogens into the body, stimulating the production of specific antibodies. These antibodies provide immunity against future infections with the actual pathogens. Vaccines have been developed for various diseases, including measles, polio, and influenza, harnessing the power of immunoglobulins to confer immunity [4,5].

Passive immunization: In certain situations, immediate protection against a specific infection is required. Passive immunization involves administering pre-formed antibodies, such as immunoglobulins, to individuals who are at risk of or exposed to a particular pathogen. This is commonly used in cases of exposure to hepatitis B virus or rabies virus [6,7].

Immunoglobulin analysis continues to advance our understanding of the immune system and its interactions with pathogens. Scientists are exploring ways to enhance the production of specific antibodies through genetic engineering techniques, creating monoclonal antibodies that target specific pathogens or cancer cells. Monoclonal antibodies have shown great promise in treating conditions like cancer, autoimmune diseases, and infectious diseases [8,9].

Furthermore, the development of therapeutic antibodies, including checkpoint inhibitors used in cancer immunotherapy, highlights the pivotal role that immunoglobulins play in regulating immune responses and maintaining immune system balance [10,11].

Immunoglobulins, as the guardians of immunity, are remarkable molecules that exemplify the intricacies of the immune system. From their diverse structures to their multifaceted functions, these antibodies are essential for protecting the body against infections, maintaining immune balance, and providing immune memory. Ongoing analysis and clinical applications of immunoglobulins hold the promise of improving treatments for various diseases and enhancing our ability to harness the power of the immune system for therapeutic purposes. As our understanding deepens, immunoglobulins continue to be a source of inspiration for medical advancements that benefit humanity [12,13].

References

1. Potharaju NR. Excessive crying in children with cerebral palsy with communication deficits-a fixed-sequence,crossover clinical trial. Glob J Res Anal. 2022; 11(07):25-44.

   [Crossref] [Google scholar]

2. Meeuwsen M, Blokx WA, van Den Hurk MM, Fluit LC, Groenen PJ. Learning mechanisms and outcomes of an interprofessional molecular pathology workshop for residents. Academ Pathol. 2022; 9(1):100056.  

   [Crossref] [Google scholar]

3. Levy J, Lu Y, Montivero M, Ramwala O, McFadden J, Miles C, et al. Artificial intelligence, bioinformatics, and pathology: emerging trends part ii––current applications in anatomic and molecular pathology. Adv  Mol Pathol. 2023; 5(1): 25-52.

   [Crossref] [Google scholar]

4. Kwiatkowski DJ. Tuberous sclerosis: From tubers to mTOR. Ann Hum Genet. 2003; 67(1):87-96.

   [Crossref] [Google scholar]

5. Crino PB, Nathanson KL, Henske EP. The tuberous sclerosis complex. NEJM. 2006; 355(13):1345-1356.

   [Crossref] [Google scholar]

6. Maher ER. von Hippel-Lindau disease. Eur J Can. 1994; 30(13):1987-1990.

   [Crossref] [Google scholar]

7. Garcia RA, Inwards CY, Unni KK. Benign bone tumors—recent developments. Semin Diagn Pathol. 2011; 28: 73-85. WB Saunders.

   [Crossref] [Google scholar]

8. Marks V, Teale JD. Tumours producing hypoglycaemia. Diabetes Metab Res Rev. 1991; 7(2):79-91.

   [Crossref] [Google scholar]

9. CS G. Insulinoma. Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol. 2005;19: 783-798.

   [Crossref] [Google scholar]

10. Gill RQ, Sterling RK. Acute liver failure. J Clin Gastroenterol. 2001; 33(3):191-198.

    [Crossref] [Google scholar]

11. Tromberg J, Bauer B, Benvenuto‐Andrade C, Marghoob AA. Congenital melanocytic nevi needing treatment. Dermatol Ther. 2005;18(2):136-150.

    [Crossref] [Google scholar]

12. Sagel SS, Ablow RC. Hamartoma: on occasion a rapidly growing tumor of the lung. Radiology. 1968; 91(5):971-972.

    [Crossref] [Google scholar]

13. Brada M. Radiotherapy for benign brain tumours coming of age; example of vestibular schwannoma. Radiother Oncol. 2013; 106(2):157-160.

    [Crossref] [Google scholar]