Gammaglobuliinit

Gammaglobuliinit, or gamma globulins, are a class of serum proteins identified by their position in the gamma region on serum protein electrophoresis and by their content of immunoglobulins, or antibodies. They represent the antibody component of the humoral immune system.

They are produced by plasma cells derived from B lymphocytes and play a central role in recognizing and neutralizing foreign antigens. The gamma globulin fraction includes the immunoglobulins IgG, IgA, IgM, IgD, and IgE, with IgG typically being the most abundant in normal serum. Immunoglobulins bind specific antigens, neutralize pathogens, promote phagocytosis, and activate the complement system.

In diagnostics and therapeutics, gamma globulins are obtained from pooled human plasma through fractionation and purification processes, and are used to study immune disorders or produce therapeutic preparations. The most common clinical product is intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), used to provide passive immunity in individuals with antibody deficiencies or certain autoimmune conditions.

Clinically, abnormal levels of gamma globulins can indicate immune dysregulation. Low gamma globulin levels (hypogammaglobulinemia) can predispose to infections, while high levels (hypergammaglobulinemia) can occur in chronic inflammatory or autoimmune states and certain gammopathies. Therapeutic administration of gamma globulins can reduce infection risk in selected patients but may be associated with adverse effects such as infusion reactions or, less commonly, thrombotic events.

See also immunoglobulin, humoral immunity, serum protein electrophoresis, intravenous immunoglobulin.