Which immunoglobulin can cross the placenta into the fetus?

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Multiple Choice

Which immunoglobulin can cross the placenta into the fetus?

Explanation:
Maternal antibodies provide passive immunity to the fetus, and the immunoglobulin that can cross the placenta is IgG. This transfer happens through the Fc neonatal receptor (FcRn) on placental cells, which binds the Fc portion of IgG and shuttles it into the fetal circulation. Because of this mechanism, IgG is the only class that crosses in meaningful amounts, giving the newborn circulating antibodies after birth. Other immunoglobulins don’t cross in significant amounts: IgM is a large pentamer and cannot pass the placental barrier; IgA is mainly secreted at mucosal surfaces and stays there; IgD is not typically transported across the placenta.

Maternal antibodies provide passive immunity to the fetus, and the immunoglobulin that can cross the placenta is IgG. This transfer happens through the Fc neonatal receptor (FcRn) on placental cells, which binds the Fc portion of IgG and shuttles it into the fetal circulation. Because of this mechanism, IgG is the only class that crosses in meaningful amounts, giving the newborn circulating antibodies after birth. Other immunoglobulins don’t cross in significant amounts: IgM is a large pentamer and cannot pass the placental barrier; IgA is mainly secreted at mucosal surfaces and stays there; IgD is not typically transported across the placenta.

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