gammaglobin

Gammaglobin, or gamma globulin, is a term historically used for the fraction of serum globulins that contains most of the antibodies in blood. In current usage, it largely corresponds to the immunoglobulins, especially immunoglobulin G (IgG), with smaller amounts of IgA and IgM. These gamma globulins are produced by plasma cells derived from B lymphocytes in lymphoid tissues and circulating memory B cells.

The primary role of gamma globulins is to provide humoral immunity. Antibodies recognize specific antigens on pathogens or toxins, neutralize them, facilitate their clearance by phagocytes, and activate the complement system. This antibody-mediated defense is essential for protecting against infections and for coordinating immune responses.

In clinical practice, gamma globulin preparations are derived from pooled human plasma and used for immunotherapy and immunoglobulin replacement. Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and subcutaneous immunoglobulin (SCIG) provide broad-spectrum IgG to patients with primary immunodeficiencies (such as agammaglobulinemia and common variable immunodeficiency) or with certain secondary immunodeficiencies. They are also used in selected autoimmune or inflammatory conditions and in specific post-exposure settings as a source of passive immunity. In laboratory settings, electrophoresis can reveal the gamma globulin region, whose relative level can aid in diagnosing immune or inflammatory states.

Production of gammaglobulin involves purification of Ig-containing fractions from donor plasma, followed by viral inactivation and removal steps (such as pasteurization, solvent/detergent treatment, and nanofiltration) to enhance safety.