title: Immunobarriers of the tubotympanum.
abstract: The tubotympanum is protected by an immune system in addition to the mucociliary, secretory (antibacterial substance), and phagocytic defense systems. The immune protection is provided by innate and adaptive immune systems. With the latter, the tubotympanum is protected by both the local (humoral and cellular) and the systemic immunity. The major immunoglobulins involved are IgG, IgM (SIgM), and SIgA, although IgE and IgD may also be involved.
authors.forename: D J
authors.initials: DJ
authors.lastname: Lim
authors.forename: T F
authors.initials: TF
authors.lastname: DeMaria
mesh_terms: D004432:Ear, Middle / Q000276:immunology*; D005064:Eustachian Tube / Q000276:immunology*; D006801:Humans; D007109:Immunity; D007136:Immunoglobulins / Q000502:physiology
chemical_list: D007136:Immunoglobulins