Anti-Rh antibodies are an example of what class of immunoglobulin?
IgG
IgE
IgA
IgM
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is IgG.
IgG is the class of immunoglobulin that anti-Rh antibodies belong to. Immunoglobulins, or antibodies, are proteins produced by B cells in response to pathogens or other foreign substances. There are five primary classes of immunoglobulins: IgA, IgD, IgE, IgG, and IgM. These classes differ in structure, function, and location in the body.
IgG is the most abundant class of antibodies found in the bloodstream and plays a significant role in the immune response. It is involved in recognizing and neutralizing foreign invaders like bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. Additionally, IgG antibodies are crucial in processes like opsonization (marking pathogens for destruction by immune cells), neutralizing toxins, and activating the complement system, which helps to clear pathogens from the body.
Anti-Rh antibodies are produced in response to Rh incompatibility, typically when an Rh-negative individual is exposed to Rh-positive blood. This exposure might occur during pregnancy if an Rh-negative mother carries an Rh-positive fetus. If untreated, the mother’s immune system may produce IgG antibodies against the Rh factor, which can cross the placenta in subsequent pregnancies and attack the Rh-positive red blood cells of the fetus, potentially leading to hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN).
Unlike other classes of immunoglobulins like IgM, which is the first antibody produced in response to infection, IgG is typically produced in larger amounts after the initial immune response. It provides long-term immunity and memory, enabling a quicker and more effective response if the body encounters the same pathogen again in the future.