When you hear the words “immune system,” what comes to mind? Probably images of people with runny noses, swollen eyes, and sneezing. But the immune system is more complex than just a defense against germs. There are different types of antibodies, and each plays a specific role in protecting us from illness. This blog post will explore the difference between IgG and IgE antibodies. Stay tuned!
What is IgG?
IgG is a type of antibody that is secreted by plasma cells. It is the most abundant antibody in the body, and it plays an important role in protecting against infection. IgG can bind to viruses, bacteria, and other foreign substances, neutralizing them and helping to clear them from the body. IgG antibodies are also responsible for triggering the release of histamine, which helps to promote inflammation and fight infection. IgG antibodies typically have a half-life of around 21 days, which means that they remain in the body for a relatively short period of time. However, IgG antibodies can still provide protection against infection for many years after they are first produced.
What is IgE?
IgE is an abbreviation for immunoglobulin E. It is a type of antibody that is produced by the immune system in response to allergens. IgE antibodies attach to mast cells and basophils, which are types of white blood cells. When the IgE antibodies come into contact with an allergen, they cause the mast cells and basophils to release histamine and other chemicals, which leads to allergic symptoms. IgE is the most important antibody involved in allergic reactions, and it plays a key role in conditions such as asthma, hay fever, and food allergies.
Difference between IgG and IgE
IgG and IgE are two types of antibodies that are important in the immune system. IgG is the most common type of antibody, and it is responsible for fighting infections. IgE is less common, but it plays an important role in allergic reactions. IgE antibodies are produced in response to allergens, and they cause the release of histamine, which leads to the symptoms of an allergic reaction. IgG antibodies are also produced in response to allergens, but they do not cause an allergic reaction. Instead, IgG antibodies help to protect the body from infection by binding to viruses and bacteria. IgG antibodies can also neutralize toxins and remove them from the body. IgE antibodies are only found on the surface of mast cells and basophils, while IgG antibodies are found throughout the body.
Conclusion
IgG and IgE antibodies are both produced by the immune system in response to an infection or allergen, but they play different roles in immunity. IgG is the most common type of antibody and is important for fighting bacterial and viral infections. IgE is responsible for triggering the allergic response, which can cause symptoms such as sneezing, a runny nose, itchy eyes, and hives. If you’re experiencing allergy symptoms, your doctor may order tests to measure the levels of IgG and IgE antibodies in your blood.
