IgA Immunoglobulin
•
e
IgA
•
U
Two forms:
•
L
secretory IgA
•
L
monomeric IgA
•
-found in secretory fluids
•
-dimeric form (2 basic units held by a
J chain)
•
-secretory piece protects Ig from
degradation by proteolytic enzymes
•
-found in serum
•
-both forms (monomeric & dimeric)
are found in serum
•
U
accounts for 15% of total immunoglobulins