On the mechanisms of transport and biological significance of antibodies in external secretions

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Abstract
Recent evidence suggests that the antibodies present in certain external secretions are produced locally, and that the predominant immunoglobulin in these secretions appears to be γA, which is complexed to a nonimmunoglobulin glycoprotein referred to as the secretory “piece” or T chain. The secretory immunoglobulin system may be of importance in determining local flora and the resistance of mucous membranes to colonization by potentially pathogenic bacteria and viruses, and may be involved in hypersensitivity reactions on mucous surfaces as well as in certain so‐called autoimmune processes.