Hapten
Hapten
Hapten (/ˈhæptɪn/) is a small molecule that, when combined with a larger carrier such as a protein, can elicit an immune response.
Etymology
The term "hapten" is derived from the Greek word "haptein", which means "to fasten".
Definition
A hapten is a small molecule that can stimulate an immune response only when attached to a large carrier such as a protein; the carrier may be one that also does not induce an immune response by itself. In general, only large molecules, proteins, or polysaccharides can stimulate an immune response. However, haptens are small molecules that can elicit an immune response when attached to a large carrier molecule.
Related Terms
- Immunogen: An immunogen is a substance that induces a specific immune response. It can be a protein, polysaccharide, or a hapten coupled to a carrier molecule.
- Antigen: An antigen is a substance that binds to specific immune receptors and elicits an immune response. Haptens can become antigens when bound to a carrier molecule.
- Carrier molecule: A carrier molecule is a large molecule to which a hapten is attached to stimulate an immune response.
- Immune response: An immune response is the reaction of the immune system to foreign substances. Haptens can stimulate an immune response when attached to a carrier molecule.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Hapten
- Wikipedia's article - Hapten
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