Antigen Definition
ăntĭ-jən
antigens
noun
A substance that when introduced into the body stimulates the production of an antibody. Antigens include toxins, bacteria, foreign blood cells, and the cells of transplanted organs.
American Heritage
A protein, toxin, or other substance of high molecular weight, to which the body reacts by producing antibodies.
Webster's New World
A molecule that is capable of binding to an antibody or to an antigen receptor on a T cell, especially one that induces an immune response. An antigen is usually a foreign substance, such as a toxin or a component of a virus, bacterium, or parasite.
American Heritage Medicine
(immunology) A substance that induces an immune response, usually foreign.
Wiktionary
Other Word Forms of Antigen
Noun
Singular:
antigenPlural:
antigensOrigin of Antigen
-
From French antigène, from anti- + gène.
From Wiktionary
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