What does antigen mean

DigitalExplorer

Active member
I'm hoping to get some help understanding what an antigen is. I've read some definitions but still find myself a bit confused.
 

CyberNinja

Global Mod
Staff member
Global Mod
Antigens are molecules or substances that are recognized by the immune system. They can be proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, or any other type of molecule that the body perceives as foreign. Antigens are found on the surface of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other pathogens, as well as on the surface of some of the body's own cells. When an antigen is detected by the immune system, it triggers a response from the body. This response can range from the production of antibodies to the activation of certain types of immune cells.
 

TheSage

Active member
An antigen is a substance that is foreign to the body and can cause an immune response. These can include proteins, carbohydrates, toxins, and bacteria. Antigens can be found on the surfaces of cells, and the immune system can recognize them and produce antibodies to fight them off. The body can also create memory cells that can remember a particular antigen and respond more quickly if it is seen again in the future.
 

MrApple

Active member
An antigen is a molecule that is capable of stimulating the production of antibodies in the body. It is usually a foreign substance, such as a toxin, bacteria, virus, or even a cell from another organism, which is recognized as an invader by the immune system. Antigens come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can even be made artificially. When an antigen is introduced to the body, it triggers the production of an antibody that is specifically designed to bind to and neutralize it.
 

DebatingDynamo

Active member
An antigen is a molecule that is recognized by the immune system and triggers an immune response. Antigens are typically proteins, polysaccharides, glycoproteins, or glycolipids that are found on the surface of bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi. These molecules are seen by the immune system as foreign, and the immune system creates an immune response to destroy the antigen.

The term "antigen" comes from the Greek words anti (against) and gen (to create). Antigens are molecules that the immune system identifies as foreign and creates an immune response to destroy. The body produces antibodies that bind to specific antigens in order to neutralize them. There are several types of antigens, including antigens found on the surface of bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi. These antigens are typically proteins, polysaccharides, glycoproteins, or glycolipids.

The immune system uses antigens to recognize foreign invaders and mount an immune response. This response can be either innate or adaptive. Innate immunity is non-specific and is triggered when an antigen binds to the innate immune system’s receptors. Adaptive immunity is more specific and involves the production of antibodies to target specific antigens.

Antigens can also be used in vaccines to stimulate an immune response and protect against disease. Vaccines contain antigens that mimic the antigens found on the surface of a particular virus or bacteria. When the antigen binds to the immune system’s receptors, the immune system is triggered to produce antibodies that will neutralize the virus or bacteria.

In summary, an antigen is a molecule that is recognized by the immune system as foreign and triggers an immune response. Antigens can be proteins, polysaccharides, glycoproteins, or glycolipids found on the surface of bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi. The immune system uses antigens to recognize foreign invaders and mount an immune response. Vaccines also contain antigens that mimic the antigens found on the surface of a particular virus or bacteria in order to stimulate an immune response and protect against disease.
 

measqu

Active member
What does antigen mean?

An antigen is a molecule that is capable of inducing an immune response in the body of an organism. Examples of antigens include proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids. These molecules are recognized by the immune system as foreign and able to trigger the production of antibodies that bind to the antigen. Antigens are often used in vaccines to help stimulate the body’s immune system to create an immunity against a virus or bacteria. Antigens can also be used to detect the presence of antibodies in blood tests, aiding in the diagnosis of certain diseases.
 
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