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[Immunoglobulin D. Physiology and pathology excluding myeloma]
Pathologie-Biologie
|April 1, 1975
Summary
Immunoglobulin D (IgD) is a unique antibody with low serum levels and a distinct electrophoretic mobility. Despite not activating complement, IgD possesses antibody functions and is implicated in autoimmune processes.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Protein Chemistry
Context:
- Immunoglobulin D (IgD) represents the fourth class of immunoglobulins.
- It is secreted by plasma cells and found on the surface of some lymphocytes.
- Serum levels of IgD are notably low due to limited secretion, diffusion, and rapid catabolism.
Purpose:
- To detail the physicochemical and functional characteristics of Immunoglobulin D.
- To explore the clinical relevance of IgD, including its association with autoimmune diseases.
Summary:
- IgD exhibits unique electrophoretic migration patterns (beta-gamma zone, beta2 zone) and possesses a single inter-delta-chain disulfide bridge.
- The light chains of IgD are typically lambda chains.
- While IgD does not activate complement, it functions as an antibody, with anti-IgD antibodies found in 37% of healthy individuals.
Impact:
- Understanding IgD's properties is crucial for diagnosing and managing rare conditions like monoclonal IgD gammopathy.
- The presence of auto-antibodies against IgD suggests a role in autoimmune and connective tissue diseases.
- Further research into IgD's antigenic characteristics may reveal new diagnostic or therapeutic targets.