Difference between revisions of "Antigen"
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m (Reverted edits by Shiit (talk) to last revision by Randomdude) |
(Definition for antigen was extremely incorrect. Antigen isn't a specialized protein, it doesn't even have to be organic.) |
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| − | An '''antigen''' is | + | An '''antigen''' is any foreign, or unrecognised substance that is capable of inducing an immune response, usually involving the production of [[antibodies]] which bind to, and disable, the antigen. Antigen may be a protein, protein fragment, or even a metallic fragment (for example, due to wearing of a metallic hip replacement). When an antigen is injected into the bloodstream, as through vaccination, it causes the body to produce [[antibodies]]. |
[[Category:Molecular Biology]] | [[Category:Molecular Biology]] | ||
[[Category:Immunology]] | [[Category:Immunology]] | ||
Revision as of 02:04, July 15, 2012
An antigen is any foreign, or unrecognised substance that is capable of inducing an immune response, usually involving the production of antibodies which bind to, and disable, the antigen. Antigen may be a protein, protein fragment, or even a metallic fragment (for example, due to wearing of a metallic hip replacement). When an antigen is injected into the bloodstream, as through vaccination, it causes the body to produce antibodies.