Immunoglobulin G (IgG), the most abundant plasma antibody (8–18 mg/mL), comprises four subclasses (IgG1–4) with distinct effector functions mediated by structural variations in their Fc regions. IgG neutralizes pathogens through Fab-mediated antigen binding and Fc-dependent mechanisms, including complement activation (via C1q binding to IgG1/IgG3) and antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) through FcγRIIIa engagement on natural killer cells. IgG’s extended half-life (21 days) arises from pH-dependent FcRn recycling, which also facilitates placental transfer, conferring neonatal immunity.
IgG is an important protein in the life sciences. Plasma derived IgG is widely used as a therapuetic to treat diseases such as Primary Immunodeficiencies. Engineered monoclonal IgGs therapies are widely used in the treatment of cancers and autoimmune diseases. IgG is also used in flow cytometry as an Fc receptor blocking agent.
None
None - not classified as hazardous
11 - Combustible Solids
Not applicable - not a hazardous mixture. Standard laboratory hygiene practices recommended.