Adjuvant

Definition

An adjuvant is a substance that enhances the body's immune response to an antigen. It is often used in vaccines to improve their efficacy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Adjuvants can increase the production of both polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies.
2. Common adjuvants include aluminum salts, oil emulsions, and bacterial components.
3. They help in presenting the antigen more effectively to the immune cells.
4. Adjuvants can reduce the amount of antigen needed in a vaccine, making it more cost-effective.
5. Some adjuvants are designed to stimulate specific parts of the immune system, such as T-cells or B-cells.

Review Questions

Related terms

Antigen:

A substance that induces an immune response, often by producing antibodies.

Polyclonal Antibodies:

Antibodies produced by different B cell lines within the body.

Monoclonal Antibodies:

Identical antibodies produced by a single clone of cells targeting a specific antigen epitope.