A 47-year-old member asked:
Can you tell me physically and structurally what is the difference between immunoglobulin g and m etc.?
1 doctor answer • 2 doctors weighed in
Dr. Michael Ruppanswered
Allergy and Immunology 23 years experience
Simply Put: Both IgG and IgM are immunoglobulin proteins with a roughly "Y" shape which binds to an antigen (foreign substance in the body) at one end and a cellular receptor at the other end. The principal differences lie in how and when they form. IgM is made early in infections and form pentamers. IgG is made later in infections, is more specific, and circulates as monomers.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
3.8k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Apr 10, 2019
People also asked
Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere.
24/7 visits - just $44!
50% off with $19/month membership
Disclaimer:
Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.