IgM Antibodies

IgM antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system in response to an infection. They are the first type of antibody to appear when the body encounters a new pathogen, such as a virus or bacteria. IgM antibodies help neutralize and eliminate these invaders quickly. They are effective at forming complexes with the infectious agents and activating other parts of the immune system. Their presence often indicates a recent or ongoing infection. Once the infection resolves, the levels of IgM typically decline, and other antibodies, like IgG, become more prominent to provide longer-term immunity.