Block D

Question 1

What is an antigen?

Answer 1

1. a molecule that reacts with antibodies and the specific receptors on T and B cells
2. substance capable of inducing a specific immune response

Question 2

What are adjuvants?

Answer 2

a substance that non-specifically enhances the immune response to an antigen

Question 3

Why are adjuvants used in vaccines?

Answer 3

Promote maturation of more APCs
Increase interaction between APC and T cells
Promote production of more T helper-polarizing cytokines, multifunctional T cells, and antibodies
Broad and durable immunity, dose and antigen savings

Question 4

How are Antigens recognised?

Answer 4

1. PAMPs - pathogen-associated molecular patterns (e.g. nucleic acids, surface glycoproteins, lipoproteins, membrane components)
2. DAMPs - danger-associated molecular patterns (e.g. mitochondrial DNA, heat shock proteins)
3. PRR - pattern recognition receptors

Question 5

What is Macropinocytosis?

Answer 5

direct uptake of soluble antigens from the extracellular space