noun
- substances that cause the immune system to produce antibodies against them
Usage: medical; biology
Examples
- The vaccine contains weakened antigens that help the body build immunity.
- Blood tests can detect specific antigens associated with certain diseases.
- White blood cells recognize foreign antigens and mount an immune response.
- Pollen acts as an antigen for people with seasonal allergies.
- Doctors test for viral antigens to diagnose infections quickly.
- The transplanted organ was rejected because its antigens didn’t match the recipient’s.