noun
- a substance that causes the body’s immune system to produce antibodies against it
Usage: medical; biology
Examples
- The vaccine contains weakened antigens that help the body build immunity.
- White blood cells recognize foreign antigens and mount an immune response.
- Pollen acts as an antigen in people with allergies.
- Blood typing depends on specific antigens present on red blood cells.
- The laboratory tested for viral antigens in the patient’s blood sample.
- Cancer cells may display abnormal antigens on their surface.
- Researchers are studying tumor antigens for potential cancer treatments.