ANTIGENIC DRIFT Meaning and
Definition
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Antigenic drift is a term used in immunology to describe the gradual genetic changes that occur in the surface proteins (antigens) of viruses or other pathogens over time. These genetic changes lead to alterations in the antigenic properties of the pathogen, subsequently affecting the host's immune response.
When a virus infects a host, the immune system recognizes the viral antigens and mounts an immune response to neutralize and eliminate the virus. However, as the virus replicates and spreads, its genetic material may undergo spontaneous mutations. These mutations can occur in the genes that encode the viral antigens.
Antigenic drift allows the virus to evade the immune system's recognition and defense mechanisms. The immune system primarily recognizes the viral antigens based on their specific structure. Hence, even minor alterations in the antigenic structure due to genetic changes can render the previously generated immune response less effective or ineffective, facilitating reinfection or reduced protection.
Antigenic drift plays a significant role in the evolution of viruses, particularly RNA viruses like influenza, HIV, and coronavirus. It is responsible for the seasonal changes in flu strains, forcing the development of new vaccines each year. Additionally, it can also contribute to the emergence of new viral subtypes or strains that may possess enhanced ability to cause disease or evade immune responses.
Understanding antigenic drift is crucial for the development of effective vaccines and antiviral treatments. Continuous surveillance and monitoring of genetic changes in circulating pathogens allow scientists to predict and keep pace with the evolving strains, enabling the development of targeted strategies to combat infectious diseases.
Common Misspellings for ANTIGENIC DRIFT
- zntigenic drift
- sntigenic drift
- wntigenic drift
- qntigenic drift
- abtigenic drift
- amtigenic drift
- ajtigenic drift
- ahtigenic drift
- anrigenic drift
- anfigenic drift
- angigenic drift
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- an6igenic drift
- an5igenic drift
- antugenic drift
- antjgenic drift
- antkgenic drift
- antogenic drift
- ant9genic drift
- ant8genic drift
Etymology of ANTIGENIC DRIFT
The etymology of the word "antigenic drift" can be traced back to three main components:
1. Anti-: This prefix comes from the Ancient Greek word "antí" (ἀντί), which means "against" or "opposite". It imparts a sense of opposition or resistance.
2. -gen: This suffix is derived from the Ancient Greek word "génos" (γένος), which means "race", "kind", or "birth". It is often used in scientific and medical terminology to refer to something that generates or produces.
3. Drift: This term comes from the Old Norse word "drift", which means "drive" or "movement". It can also refer to the action of being carried along by currents or winds.
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