Immunoglobulin G (IgG)

Immunoglobulin G (IgG) is a monomeric immunoglobulin, built of two heavy chains γ and two light chains. Each IgG has two antigen binding sites. It is the most abundant immunoglobulin and is approximately equally distributed in blood and in tissue liquids, constituting 75% of serum immunoglobulins in humans. IgG molecules are synthesised and secreted by plasma B cells. IgG antibodies are predominately involved in the secondary antibody response, which occurs approximately one month following antigen recognition, thus the presence of specific IgG generally corresponds to maturation of the antibody response. This is the only isotype that can pass through the human placenta, thereby providing protection to the fetus in utero. Along with IgA secreted in the breast milk, residual IgG absorbed through the placenta provides the neonate with humoral immunity before its own immune system develops.