Which two immunoglobulins are primarily involved in a Type 2 hypersensitivity reaction?

In a Type 2 hypersensitivity reaction, the immune response is mediated predominantly by specific immunoglobulins that lead to cell damage or destruction through complement activation and antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC). The primary immunoglobulins involved in these mechanisms are IgM and IgG.

IgM is often the first antibody produced in response to an antigen, especially in the context of blood group antigens. When incompatible blood is transfused, IgM binds to the foreign red blood cells, leading to their lysis via the complement system.

IgG plays a crucial role in Type 2 hypersensitivity as well, primarily due to its ability to bind to antigens on the surface of cells and facilitate their destruction through ADCC, where immune cells such as natural killer (NK) cells and macrophages recognize and kill the antibody-coated target cells.

While other immunoglobulins like IgA and IgE have important roles in different immune responses, they do not primarily mediate Type 2 hypersensitivity. IgE is more involved in Type 1 hypersensitivity, such as allergies and asthma, while IgA is primarily associated with mucosal immunity. IgD is mostly found on the surface of B cells and does not play a significant