Lymphatic and Immune Systems Practice Test

Antigens are specific molecules found on the surface of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites that are recognized by the immune system as foreign invaders. When these antigens are detected, they trigger a specific immune response, leading to the activation of lymphocytes, including T cells and B cells. This process allows the immune system to identify and target the invaders effectively.

Antigens can be proteins, polysaccharides, or other types of molecules, and they serve as unique markers that distinguish one pathogen from another. This specificity is crucial for the adaptive immune response, as it enables the body to mount an effective defense against infections. By recognizing and binding to these antigens, immune cells can initiate processes that lead to the destruction or neutralization of the pathogens.

Understanding antigens is fundamental to immunology, as they not only play a key role in the body's defense mechanisms but also form the basis for the development of vaccines, which often contain components that mimic antigens to prepare the immune system for future encounters with actual pathogens.