Antigen (Noun)
Meaning
Any substance (as a toxin or enzyme) that stimulates an immune response in the body (especially the production of antibodies).
Classification
Nouns denoting substances.
Examples
- The vaccine contains a weakened antigen that triggers the body's immune system to produce antibodies against the virus.
- The toxin produced by the bacteria is a potent antigen that can cause a severe allergic reaction in some individuals.
- The doctor explained that the antigen test would detect the presence of the disease by identifying the specific antibodies produced by the body.
- The researchers isolated the antigen from the virus and used it to develop a new vaccine that could provide long-term immunity.
- The antigen-presenting cells in the immune system play a crucial role in recognizing and processing foreign substances, such as bacteria and viruses.