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.

The word 'antigen' is derived from 'anti-', meaning against + 'gen', meaning producing.

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.

antibody

A protein produced by the immune system that recognizes and binds to antigens.

vaccination

The act of introducing an antigenic substance into the body to induce immunity.

immune response

The reaction of the immune system to a foreign substance.

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.