2006-08-01 08:52:34 · 5 answers · asked by smashbrolover 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Biology
an antigen is a molecule eg glycoprotein on cell plasma membrane that serve as molecular markers, targets, receptors. All cells of an organism have them as do the cells of pathogens. The immune system has the ability to recognise non-self antigens via its maturation process. When it recognises a non self antigen it will bind to it and trigger a variety of immunological responses. Occasionally, the body mistakes self for non self antigens and this is the cause of autoimmune disease such as rheumatism.
2006-08-01 09:47:19 · answer #1 · answered by Allasse 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No. An antigen is any molecule (usually a sugar or protein on the surface of a cell) that triggers an immune response. As others have mentioned, cells in our own bodies have antigens, thus auto-immune diseases. Also, antigens determine what blood type you have. If your red blood cells have the B antigen, then you have type B blood. The antigen doesn't trigger an immune response in YOU, but it would in someone who does not have type B blood.
2006-08-01 17:58:19 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
No.Why only pathogens?Antigens are ever present in the environment.Even antibody can act as an antigen.
2006-08-01 16:00:52 · answer #3 · answered by OicedvenomO 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Antigens are substances that trigger an immune response. They can be found everywhere.
2006-08-01 16:46:40 · answer #4 · answered by C.K. 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Unfortunately no. That is why you have such things as immunoreaction (rejection) to grafted organs, and allergic reaction to pollen.
2006-08-01 15:58:02 · answer #5 · answered by Vincent G 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋