Immunoglobulins (Ig), also known as antibodies, are protein molecules that play an important role in the immune system of living organisms, including humans. They are produced by certain types of white blood cells, plasma cells, and fulfill a number of key functions in helping the body fight off infections and other pathological processes. Immunoglobulins have an antibody structure and are able to bind to antigens so that they can detect and attack foreign microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses and other infectious agents.

The most important functions of immunoglobulins (German translation: Immunglobuline) include:

• Neutralization: Immunoglobulins can bind to viruses, bacteria and toxins, inactivate them and support their excretion from the body.
• Opsonization: Antibodies (translation into German: Antikörper) can help phagocytes (white blood cells such as macrophages and neutrophils) to detect and absorb foreign cells more easily. They do this by “marking” the antigens (German: Antigene).
• Complement activation: Immunoglobulins can trigger cascades of complement proteins, which leads to an increased immune response and the destruction of microorganisms.
• Adaptive immune response: Antibodies play a key role in the adaptive immune response by providing long-term immunity against infections and contributing to the formation of the immune system’s memory.

Immunoglobulin preparations as blood products are concentrated forms of antibodies extracted from the blood plasma of donors and used in medicine to treat various conditions and diseases associated with a deficiency or disorder of the immune system. These preparations are sometimes also referred to as intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIG) or gamma globulins.

Immunoglobulins obtained from donor plasma contain different classes and subclasses of antibodies such as IgG, IgA, IgM, IgD and IgE. Their main purpose is to increase the levels of certain antibodies in the patient’s body, thereby strengthening the immune system or providing passive immunization.

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