Abstract
IgA is the most abundant immunoglobulin produced in mammals; most is secreted as a dimer across mucous membranes. This review discusses the different mechanisms of induction of IgA, and its role in protecting mucosal surfaces against pathogenic and non-pathogenic microorganisms.
MeSH terms
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Animals
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B-Lymphocytes / physiology
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Bile / immunology
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Humans
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Immunoglobulin A, Secretory / biosynthesis*
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Immunoglobulin Class Switching
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Intestinal Diseases / immunology
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Intestinal Mucosa / immunology*
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Intestines / microbiology
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Milk / immunology
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Rotavirus Infections / immunology
Substances
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Immunoglobulin A, Secretory