IgY Mechanisms of Action-From Pathogen Neutralization to Immunomodulation

Immunoglobulin Y (IgY), extracted from poultry eggs, is emerging as a potent therapeutic for various infectious and inflammatory diseases affecting both humans and animals.

Its ability to interact with microbes, bacterial toxins, and metabolites enables it to prevent microbial adhesion to cell surfaces, inhibit pathogen mobility, neutralize viruses, and deactivate toxins. This comprehensive protective capability spans bacteria, viruses, fungi, and their toxins. This review explores IgY’s mechanisms for disease management, focusing on mucosal diseases in the gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts and systemic diseases through microbiome modulation. Initially, we detail IgY’s direct role in combating mucosal pathogens like Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., Helicobacter pylori, Shigella flexneri, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans, rotavirus, COVID-19, and influenza. We then discuss its indirect effects on systemic conditions through its influence on intestinal flora, toxins, and immunomodulatory substances, potentially impacting obesity, diabetes, autoimmune disorders, neurological issues, and cancers. Lastly, we introduce Muno-IgY™, a formulated powder containing specific IgY antibodies, as a safe, effective option for managing both mucosal and systemic inflammatory conditions.