Antigen
An antigen is a substance that the immune system recognizes as foreign or harmful. It can be a part of a virus, bacteria, or other pathogens, as well as pollen or certain food proteins. When the body detects an antigen, it triggers an immune response, producing antibodies to fight off the invader. This process helps protect the body from infections and diseases. Antigens play a crucial role in vaccinations, where a harmless form of an antigen is introduced to prepare the immune system to respond effectively to actual infections in the future.
Additional Insights
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An antigen is a substance that the immune system recognizes as foreign or harmful. It can be a part of a virus, bacteria, or other pathogens, as well as proteins from allergens, toxins, or even transplanted tissues. When the body detects an antigen, it triggers an immune response, producing antibodies that specifically target and help eliminate the threat. Essentially, antigens act as markers that signal the immune system to take action against potential dangers, playing a crucial role in our body's defense against infections and diseases.