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Difference between Antigen and Antibody ?
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Difference between Antigen and Antibody ?
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Difference between Antigen and Antibody ?
Difference between Antigen and Antibody


An antigen and an antibody are two important components of the immune system that play a crucial role in protecting the body from foreign invaders such as bacteria and viruses. However, they differ in their structure, function, and mode of action. Let us explore the differences between antigens and antibodies in detail:


Antigens



  • Definition: An antigen is a foreign substance that enters the body and triggers an immune response. It can be a virus, bacterium, parasite, or any other foreign invader that the body recognizes as non-self.

  • Structure: Antigens are usually large molecules such as proteins, polysaccharides, or lipids that have unique shapes that are recognized by the immune system.

  • Function: Antigens stimulate the production of antibodies by activating B-cells in the immune system. They also activate T-cells, which help in the destruction of infected cells.

  • Examples: Examples of antigens include the flu virus, the bacteria that cause tuberculosis, and the parasites that cause malaria.



Antibodies



  • Definition: Antibodies, also known as immunoglobulins, are proteins produced by the immune system in response to the presence of antigens in the body.

  • Structure: Antibodies are Y-shaped proteins that have a variable region that can bind to a specific antigen and a constant region that interacts with other components of the immune system.

  • Function: The main function of antibodies is to recognize and neutralize antigens by binding to them and blocking their activity. They can also activate other components of the immune system such as complement proteins to destroy the antigen.

  • Examples: Examples of antibodies include IgG, IgM, IgA, and IgE.



Differences between Antigens and Antibodies























Antigens Antibodies
Foreign substance that triggers an immune response Proteins produced by the immune system in response to antigens
Large molecules such as proteins, polysaccharides, or lipids Y-shaped proteins with a variable and constant region
Stimulate the production of antibodies by activating B-cells Recognize and neutralize antigens by binding to them
Examples include the flu virus, bacteria, and parasites Examples include IgG, IgM, IgA, and IgE


Conclusion
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Difference between Antigen and Antibody ?
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