IgA

American  

Immunology.

1. immunoglobulin A: a class of antibodies predominant in respiratory and alimentary tract secretions and in saliva and tears, functioning as the body's first line of defense against invading foreign substances especially by neutralizing viral antigens and by preventing the adherence of bacteria to mucous membrane surfaces.

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Etymology

Origin of IgA

First recorded in 1960–65

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

IgA

Mice infected with the Omicron variant received the IgA antibody treatment through nasal administration.

From Science Daily ● Jan. 10, 2024

IgA antibodies are part of the so-called adaptive immune system and reside naturally in the mucosal membranes of the airways.

From Science Daily ● Jan. 10, 2024

Right now, which level of IgA is an effective shield against infection is still unclear, she says, but “scientists are coming together to figure this out.”

From Science Magazine ● Jan. 24, 2023

Gommerman is intrigued by the potential for IgA antibodies in the nose and saliva as well.

From Science Magazine ● Jan. 24, 2023

The total number of IgA molecules in these bodily secretions is greater than the number of IgG molecules in the blood serum.

From Textbooks ● Jun. 9, 2022