Antigens

Question 1

define: immunogen

Answer 1

any molecule that can initiate and immune response (eg. antigens, antibodies

Question 2

define: antigen

Answer 2

any (part of a) molecule on the surface of a cell that can stimulate a specific immune response, namely the production of antigens.

Question 3

what material can antigens be made of

Answer 3

proteins, but can also be lipoproteins/saccharides, polysaccharides, lipids, nucleic acids, some metals

Question 4

define: self antigen

Answer 4

antigens that are produced by the DNA of an individual; they are recognised by self receptors as being part of the same body and don’t cause an immune response.

Question 5

do self antigens cause immune response if injected into a genetically identical twin?

Answer 5

no

Question 6

define: non self antigen

Answer 6

antigens that are not produced by the DNA of an individual: they are recognised by self receptors as not being part of the same body. They do cause an immune response.