Epitope mapping
Epitope Mapping
Epitope mapping is a biochemical technique used in the field of immunology to identify the antibody recognition site, or 'epitope', on an antigen.
Pronunciation
Epi-tope Map-ping
Etymology
The term 'epitope' is derived from the Greek words 'epi', meaning 'on, upon', and 'topos', meaning 'place'. 'Mapping' is derived from the Middle English 'mappe', meaning 'sheet, chart', and the Latin 'mappa', meaning 'napkin, cloth'.
Definition
Epitope mapping is the process of identifying the specific amino acids within an antigen that are recognized by an antibody. This information is crucial in the development of vaccines and therapeutic antibodies, and in understanding the immune response to pathogens.
Methodology
There are several methods used for epitope mapping, including X-ray crystallography, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and various bioinformatics techniques. Each method has its own advantages and limitations, and the choice of method often depends on the specific requirements of the study.
Related Terms
- Antigen: A substance that induces an immune response in the body, especially the production of antibodies.
- Antibody: A protein produced by the body's immune system when it detects harmful substances, called antigens.
- Amino Acid: Organic compounds that combine to form proteins.
- Vaccine: A biological preparation that provides active acquired immunity to a particular infectious disease.
- Therapeutic Antibodies: Antibodies that are used as a treatment for certain conditions, including some types of cancer.
- Pathogen: A bacterium, virus, or other microorganism that can cause disease.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Epitope mapping
- Wikipedia's article - Epitope mapping
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