epitoopeihin

Epitopes are specific regions on antigens that are recognized by the immune system. When an antigen, such as a bacterium or virus, enters the body, it triggers an immune response. This response involves the production of antibodies, which are proteins that bind to specific parts of the antigen. These specific binding sites on the antigen are called epitopes. Similarly, T cells, another type of immune cell, also recognize epitopes on antigens, though their recognition mechanism differs from that of antibodies.

Epitopes can be composed of a sequence of amino acids (a linear epitope) or a three-dimensional arrangement of amino acids (a conformational epitope). Antibodies are generally able to bind to both linear and conformational epitopes. T cell receptors, on the other hand, primarily recognize linear epitopes that are presented on the surface of cells by MHC molecules. The precise shape and chemical properties of an epitope determine which antibody or T cell receptor can bind to it. This specificity is crucial for the immune system to effectively target and neutralize foreign invaders without attacking the body's own cells. The study of epitopes is fundamental to understanding immunology, vaccine development, and diagnostic testing.