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Tab Title: IgM

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Immunoglbulin M (IgM) are the largest antibody molecules, and they are the first to be synthesized after an infection.

Tab Title: IgG

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Immunoglobulin G (IgG) is the most common antibody, constituting about 80% of all antibodies. After an intiial challenge by an infection like hepatitis A, IgM antibodies are the first to be produced, and then IgG is the produced and persists after IgM levels have decline.

IgG is the only class of antibodies that can cross the placenta, allowing maternal antibodies to passively product a newborn child for about 3-4 months.

Tab Title: IgA

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A class of antibodies produced predominantly against ingested antigens, found in body secretions such as saliva, sweat, and tears, and functioning to prevent attachment of viruses and bacteria to epithelial surfaces

Tab Title: IgE

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IgE antibodies are found in the lungs, skin, and mucous membranes. They provide defense against environmental antigens. Certain anitgens (allergens) react with IgE and trigger the release of chemical mediators that cause allergic reactions, including anaphylactic hypersensitivity reactions.

Tab Title: IgD

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Small quantities of IgD antibodies are found only on the surface of B cells. Their funciton is unknown, but they might possibly function as antigen receptors to initiate differentiation of B cells into plasma cells.