immunoglobulin

[ im-yuh-noh-glob-yuh-lin, ih-myoo- ]

noun

1. any of several classes of structurally related proteins that function as antibodies or receptors and are found in plasma and other body fluids and in the membrane of certain cells. Compare IgA, IgD, IgE, IgG, IgM.
2. the fraction of the blood serum containing antibodies.
3. an antibody. : Ig

immunoglobulin

/ ˌɪmjʊnəʊˈɡlɒbjʊlɪn /

noun

1. any of five classes of proteins, all of which show antibody activity. The most abundant ones are immunoglobulin G ( IgG ) and immunoglobulin A ( IgA )

immunoglobulin

/ ĭm′yə-nō-glŏb′yə-lĭn,ĭ-myo̅o̅′- /

1. See antibody

Word History and Origins

Origin of immunoglobulin¹

First recorded in 1955–60; immuno- + globulin

Example Sentences

Intravenous immunoglobulin infusions—which reduce the overall load of abnormal cells and inflammatory agents—and steroids, which also reduce inflammation, can be effective as well.

From Time

One reason for the pause was to alert health officials to use similar non-heparin drugs and intravenous immunoglobulin.

From Washington Post