Immunoglobulin D

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Shortened to IgD

IgD
IgD - B. Catchpole, RVC 2008

IgD is present in ruminants, pigs, (dogs) and rodents but has not been identified in horses, cats, rabbits and chickens. It is mainly expressed on the surface of B-cells i.e. it is never secreted.

Structure

IgD is Y-shaped and in rodents it has two heavy chain constant regions, whereas other mammals have three. IgD has a long hinge region and no disulfide bonds.

Function

  • IgD is only expressed in association with IgM
  • It is important in B-cell development.



Immunoglobulins: Immunoglobulin A, Immunoglobulin D, Immunoglobulin E, Immunoglobulin G & Immunoglobulin M