Page 482 - Veterinary Immunology, 10th Edition

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FIG. 16.4 The structure of IgM.

IgM is the major immunoglobulin produced during primary

immune responses (Fig. 16.5). Smaller quantities are also produced
in secondary responses. Although produced in small amounts, IgM
is more efficient (on a molar basis) than IgG at complement
activation, opsonization, neutralization of viruses, and

agglutination. Because of their very large size, IgM molecules rarely
enter tissue fluids, even in acute inflammation.

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