Immunogen
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Native Protein IgM Immunoglobulin M, or IgM for short, is a basic antibody that is produced by B cells. IgM is by far the physically largest antibody in the human circulatory system. It is the first antibody to appear in response to initial exposure to antigen. The spleen is the major site of specific IgM production. Because IgM is a large molecule, it cannot diffuse well, and is found in the interstitium only in very low quantities. IgM is primarily found in serum, however, because of the J chain, it is also important as a secretory Immunoglobulin. Due to its polymeric nature, IgM possesses high avidity, and is particularly effective at complement activation. By itself, IgM is an ineffective opsonin, however it contributes greatly to opsonization by activating complement and causing C3b to bind to the antigen. The antibody is a rabbit polyclonal antibody raised against IgM.
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