Study note

Adjuvants: definition and immune effects

THE CONTEXT

Adjuvants enhance antigen immunogenicity and can affect antibody responses, cellular immunity, and the development of adjuvant diseases.

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An adjuvant is any substance that enhances the immunogenicity of an antigen.

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Adjuvants may confer immunogenicity on non-antigenic substances.

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A variety of substances exhibit adjuvant activity.

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Adjuvants may increase the concentration and persistence of circulating antibody.

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They may induce cellular immunity or enhance its degree.

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Adjuvants may lead to adjuvant diseases, including allergic disseminated encephalomyelitis.

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