Antigens

Question 1

What are antigens

Answer 1

They are molecules that can generate an immune response when detected by the body, they are found on the surface of cells

Question 2

What are foreign antigens

Answer 2

Antigens that are not normally found in the body

Question 3

What do antigens allow the immune system to identify

Answer 3

Pathogens
Abnormal body cells
Toxins
Cells from other individuals of the same species

Question 4

Tell me about pathogens

Answer 4

These are organisms that cause disease e.g bacteria, viruses and fungi
They all have antigens on their surface which are detected by the immune system

Question 5

Tell me about abnormal body cells

Answer 5

Cancerous or pathogen infected cells have abnormal antigens on their surface which trigger an immune response

Question 6

What are toxins

Answer 6

These are poisons, they are molecules.
Some are produced by bacteria

Question 7

What are cells from other individuals of the same species

Answer 7

If you receive blood from another person, they will have some antigens on that are different from their own, the foreign antigens trigger an immune response, which can lead to rejection

Question 8

Are antigens proteins

Answer 8

Yes (usually)