What protects the mucosal surfaces of the gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts by inhibiting the adherence of pathogens to host cell surfaces?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

IgA is the immunoglobulin that protects the mucosal surfaces of the gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts by inhibiting the adherence of pathogens to host cell surfaces. It is produced and secreted in large amounts in mucosal tissues, where it forms a first line of defense against invading pathogens. IgA works by binding to the surface of pathogens and preventing them from attaching to the host cells, thus blocking the infection from establishing. The other immunoglobulins listed (IgD, IgE, IgG, IgM) have different functions in the immune system but are not specifically associated with mucosal immunity.

What Protects the Mucosal Surfaces of the Gastrointestinal and Respiratory