Antigenic
from class: Microbiology Definition Describes substances that can provoke an immune response in the body by interacting with specific antibodies or T-cell receptors. These substances are typically foreign molecules such as pathogens, toxins, or other foreign particles.
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Predict what's on your test 5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test Antigenic substances are recognized by the immune system and elicit a response aimed at neutralizing or eliminating them. The antigenic determinant, also known as an epitope, is the specific part of an antigen that is recognized by antibodies or T-cell receptors. Antigenic variation allows pathogens to evade the host’s immune system by altering their surface proteins. Vaccines rely on antigenic properties to stimulate an immune response without causing disease. Autoantigens are normal body components that are mistakenly targeted by the immune system in autoimmune diseases. Review Questions What role do antigenic determinants play in the immune response? How does antigenic variation help pathogens evade the immune system? Why are antigens critical in vaccine development?
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