antigen

UK: ˈæntɪdʒən | US: ˈæntɪdʒən

Definition

  1. n. A substance (e.g., toxin, enzyme, or foreign cell) that triggers an immune response, especially antibody production.

Structure
anti <against>gen <produce>
Etymology

antigen = anti<against> + gen<produce>

  • anti (from Greek anti-, meaning "against" or "opposite")
  • gen (from Greek -genēs, meaning "producing" or "originating from")

Etymology Origin:
The term "antigen" emerged in early 20th-century immunology, combining Greek roots to describe a substance that generates an immune response against itself. The logic reflects its role as a target ("anti") for antibodies, which the body produces ("gen") in defense.

Examples

  1. Vaccines introduce weakened antigens to stimulate immunity.

  2. The lab identified a new viral antigen in the patient’s blood sample.

  3. Allergens like pollen act as antigens for some individuals.

  4. Researchers study antigen-antibody interactions to develop treatments.

  5. Rapid tests detect specific antigens to diagnose infections.