Antigen
A substance foreign to the body that causes an immune response. Found on the surface of a pathogen, an antibody can bind to it.
An antigen is a substance that is capable of inducing an immune response in the body. It is typically a foreign molecule or substance that the body recognizes as “non-self” and therefore triggers an immune response.
Antigens can be proteins, carbohydrates, nucleic acids, or even non-biological substances like chemicals or drugs. They are typically found on the surface of pathogens like viruses or bacteria, but can also be found on cancer cells and other abnormal cells within the body.
When an antigen enters the body, it is recognized by the immune system as foreign, and the immune system mounts a response to eliminate it. This response can involve the production of antibodies, which bind to the antigen and signal to other immune cells to destroy the invading pathogen or abnormal cell.
Antigens are important for the body’s defense against disease, as they enable the immune system to recognize and eliminate harmful invaders. They are also used in medical diagnostics and immunotherapy treatments for cancer and autoimmune disorders.
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