Multiple choice

A young couple has been blessed with a baby boy. Which immunoglobulin class crosses the placenta to provide a high level of passive immunity at the time of parturition?

  1. IgA

  2. IgD

  3. IgE

  4. IgG

  5. IgM

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
D Correct answer
Explanation

IgG is the only class of immunoglobulin which is acquired by the neonate by placental transfer from the mother. This process is dependent upon Fc structures specific to this Ig class. The maternal IgG is catabolized with a half-life of approximately 23 days.