antigen–antibody reaction

the binding of an antibody to its particular antigen as part of the body’s natural defense against the introduction of a foreign substance. The bound antibody renders the foreign substance more susceptible to degradation by immune cells, for example, engulfment by phagocytic cells. Once the individual’s immune system has developed antibodies to fight a certain type of antigen, the antibodies can be mobilized quickly to destroy any repeated invasion by the antigen; thus, the first antigen attack induces immunity to future attacks. See also immune response.

Browse dictionary by letter

a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z

Psychology term of the day

November 23rd 2024

opinion leader

an individual to whom others turn for advice or on whom others model their behavior. To be effective, the opinion leader needs to have social ties with other members of the group.