Blocking antibody

A blocking antibody (pronunciation: /ˈblɒkɪŋ ˈæntɪbɒdi/) is a type of antibody that does not promote an immune response but instead prevents other antibodies or antigens from binding to their target.

Etymology

The term "blocking antibody" is derived from the English words "blocking", meaning to prevent or obstruct, and "antibody", a term in immunology referring to a protein produced by the body's immune system when it detects harmful substances.

Function

Blocking antibodies function by binding to specific sites on an antigen or another antibody, thereby preventing them from initiating an immune response. This can be beneficial in certain situations, such as preventing an overactive immune response or in the treatment of autoimmune diseases.

Related Terms

Antigen: A substance that induces an immune response in the body, especially the production of antibodies.
Antibody: A blood protein produced in response to and counteracting a specific antigen.
Immune response: The reaction of the cells and fluids of the body to the presence of a substance which is not recognized as a constituent of the body itself.
Autoimmune disease: A condition arising from an abnormal immune response to a normal body part.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Blocking antibody
Wikipedia's article - Blocking antibody

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Blocking antibody