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

NHS Blood and Transplant said there was a "growing need" for immunoglobulin, which is used to treat more than 50 diseases.

From BBC

He was arrested on Friday for alleged involvement in the procurement of counterfeit intravenous human immunoglobulin, which is used to help fight infections and cancer, and was ordered held for investigation until Feb. 15.

From Seattle Times

“They also had much higher inflammation in their blood markers, and they also had higher IgE levels, an immunoglobulin associated with reactive airway disease, asthma and other breathing problems.”

From Salon

They could get treatments, like measles immunoglobulin, which could help them actually recover and be spared of any serious effects.”

From Salon

People may itch, cough and wheeze in response to allergens without showing an important diagnostic sign of an allergic response: heightened levels of immunoglobulin E antibodies.

From Scientific American