FOUNDATIONAL TERM
Antigen
抗原
A structure recognised by adaptive immune receptors.
Study this concept in context
19 · Immunity and lymph: recognition, defence and tolerance
Immunity must respond to danger while limiting unnecessary injury. Lymphatic pathways connect fluid return, transport and encounters among immune cells, making defence organised and regulated.
91 · Vaccination and population prevention
Vaccination moves immune learning ahead of dangerous exposure. Individual protection and changes in population transmission are different outcomes. This lesson connects immune memory with effect estimates, safety surveillance, and equitable access.
Sources
- OpenStax: anatomy of the lymphatic and immune systems
- OpenStax: barrier defenses and the innate immune response
- OpenStax: the adaptive immune response t lymphocytes and their functional types
- OpenStax: the adaptive immune response b lymphocytes and antibodies
- OpenStax: diseases associated with depressed or overactive immune responses
- WHO: How do vaccines work?
Definitions come from the published lessons. Read the linked lesson for mechanisms, conditions and examples.