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Translate files Antigen
/ˈæn.tɪ.dʒən/
Meaning & Definition
noun
A substance that induces an immune response, especially the production of antibodies.
The flu vaccine contains an attenuated antigen to help the body build immunity.
Any foreign substance that causes the body to produce antibodies.
Bacteria and viruses are common sources of antigens that trigger immune reactions.
A molecule capable of binding to an antibody or a T cell receptor.
The surface proteins of the pathogen serve as antigens and are recognized by the immune system.
A component of cells that can provoke an immune response in the body.
Cancer cells often present abnormal antigens that can be targeted by immunotherapy.
A marker used in blood typing to determine compatibility for transfusions.
The presence of the A antigen on red blood cells classifies the blood type as A.
Etymology
The word 'antigen' is derived from 'anti-', meaning against + 'gen', meaning producing.
Common Phrases and Expressions
viral antigen:
An antigen produced by a virus that evokes an immune response.
tumor antigen:
An antigen expressed on the surface of cancer cells that can stimulate an immune response.
autoantigen:
An antigen that is derived from the host's own body, which can trigger an autoimmune response.
Related Words
Slang Meanings
Anti-gene
Some biologists jokingly refer to antigens as 'anti-genes' in discussions.
Immune bait
Researchers sometimes call antigens 'immune bait' when describing vaccine strategies.