HealthAugust 23, 2026

antigenic

AN-tih-JEN-ik

Definition

Relating to the specific properties of a substance that trigger an immune system response, such as the production of antibodies.

Etymology

The word is derived from the Greek root 'anti-' (against) and 'gen' (to produce), originally coined in the early 20th century to describe substances that induce the formation of antibodies.

In the news

The article uses the term to explain that influenza viruses undergo constant genetic and antigenic changes, necessitating annual vaccine updates to match new viral strains.

H1N1 cases rise in India as doctors stress annual flu vaccination

Read the full article ↗

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