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Humoral immunity
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
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Ig represent a characteristic product of secretion of B-cells at the final stage of their differentiation, that is, plasma cells. Ig concentration in blood serum reflects the steady balance between their synthesis and decay. Defects associated with a violation of Ig metabolism are observed in many diseases. Reduction of Ig level in blood serum can occur for three reasons:
- violation of the synthesis of one, several or all Ig classes;
- increased destruction of Ig;
- significant loss of Ig (for example, with nephrotic syndrome).
A general consequence of these processes is the deficiency of Ig and, accordingly, the antibody. When the synthesis of Ig is disturbed, the responses of the cellular immune response mediated by T lymphocytes are also violated. An increase in the amount of Ig may be due to the enhancement of their synthesis or to a decrease in the intensity of their decomposition. Increased Ig production is the cause of hypergamma-globulinemia.
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