Antigens and Antibodies

Hi Everyone, 

        Let us continue our learning process. In this blog, we are going to learn about antigens and antibodies. We have already learned about pathogens.

 

        Well, pathogens are the infectious foreign microbes that cause diseases. The immune system persistently checks for foreign molecules. Once the foreign pathogens attack, the immune response is developed by white blood cells.  These white blood cells can differentiate their own cells and foreign cells by surface molecules. Foreign molecules that activate immune responses are called antigens. The surface of pathogens has different antigens which have different shapes. Moreover, different pathogens have different antigens. 

        White blood cells specifically B-lymphocytes produce antibodies when antigens attack the human body. Antibodies are Y-shaped protein molecules that recognizes specific antigens and bind with them in lock and key manner. These B-lymphocytes eliminate antigens and halt the infection.

Important points:

1. Since the antigens have different shapes, antibodies produced against one particular pathogen won't able to attack other pathogens.

2. Vaccine shots produce immunity by producing Antibodies against a particular pathogens.

Thank you!

References:

• What’s the Difference Between Antigens and Antibodies? (2021, March 4). Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/infection/antigen-vs-antibody