Immunoglobulin A

{
  "id": "MLC-T-CHM-005673",
  "term": "Immunoglobulin A",
  "field": "Chemistry",
  "definition": "A class of antibody that is the predominant immunoglobulin found in mucosal secretions, including saliva, tears, and fluids of the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts. It serves as a primary line of defense against inhaled and ingested pathogens by preventing their attachment to and penetration of epithelial surfaces. Secretory IgA exists primarily as a dimer, consisting of two immunoglobulin A monomers joined by a J chain and a secretory component, which protects it from enzymatic degradation in harsh mucosal environments.",
  "subject": "Chemistry and Human Health",
  "see_also": [
    "heavy chain",
    "mucosa"
  ],
  "references": [
    "PAC, 2012, 84, 1113. 'IUPAC glossary of terms used in immunotoxicology (IUPAC Recommendations 2012)' on page 1187 (https://doi.org/10.1351/PAC-REC-11-06-03)"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/chemistry/immunoglobulin-a/"
}