Immunogen
Immunogen
Immunogen (pronounced: /ɪˈmjuːnədʒɛn/) is a substance that provokes an immune response in the body, particularly the production of antibodies.
Etymology
The term "Immunogen" is derived from the Latin word "immunis" meaning exempt or free, and the Greek word "genes" meaning born of, produced by. It essentially refers to a substance that produces immunity.
Definition
An Immunogen is a molecule that stimulates the immune system. This stimulation leads to an immune response, which can include the production of antibodies or the activation of specific immune cells. Immunogens can be proteins, polysaccharides, lipids, or nucleic acids. They are typically foreign substances, such as bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens, but can also be endogenous substances in certain circumstances.
Related Terms
- Antigen: A substance that can induce an immune response. All immunogens are antigens, but not all antigens are immunogens.
- Antibody: A protein produced by the immune system in response to an immunogen.
- Immune Response: The body's defensive reaction to invasion by bacteria, viruses, or other foreign substances.
- Pathogen: A bacterium, virus, or other microorganism that can cause disease.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Immunogen
- Wikipedia's article - Immunogen
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