IgY

IgY is the major antibody found in birds (including chickens), reptiles, and lungfish. It is functionally analogous to mammalian immunoglobulin G (IgG) but differs structurally and immunologically. IgY is typically extracted from the egg yolks of hens that have been immunized with specific antigens, resulting in antigen-specific polyclonal antibodies. These antibodies are used for passive immunotherapy and prophylaxis against a wide range of infectious diseases in humans and animals. Mechanism of action involves highly specific antigen-antibody interactions at mucosal surfaces or systemically: - Inhibition of microbial adhesion to host cells - Suppression of viral colonization by preventing cell-to-cell spread - Agglutination and immobilization of pathogens - Inhibition of pathogen enzyme activity - Neutralization of toxins IgY has been studied for prevention or treatment of dental caries, periodontitis, gastritis caused by Helicobacter pylori, oral thrush (Candida albicans), infant rotavirus diarrhea, tuberculosis (Mycobacterium tuberculosis), Acinetobacter baumannii infections including pneumonia/sepsis/UTI/wound infection, Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections including as an adjuvant in cancer therapy or sepsis models. It has also shown efficacy against viruses such as Influenza A virus, Rotavirus, Dengue virus, Zika virus, Ebola virus; parasites like Trypanosoma cruzi; fungi like Candida albicans; and various foodborne pathogens. Advantages include high specificity to target pathogens without disturbing normal flora or causing resistance development seen with antibiotics. IgY can be produced rapidly at scale using egg-laying hens with minimal environmental impact[1][2][3][4][6].

Other names

immunoglobulin Ychicken immunoglobulin Yegg yolk antibody