#immunology definition

• Allotype — A genetic variation or structural antigenic determinant within a protein or immunoglobulin (antibody) that differentiates individuals within the same species. This form of molecular polymorphism reflects the presence of different alleles at the corresponding gene locus, utilized as an essential biological marker in population genetics, forensics, and immunogenetics.
• Anergic — In a state of anergy; characterized by the total lack or severe diminution of an organism's immune reactivity when exposed to specific antigens. Clinically, the term describes the state of a patient whose T or B lymphocytes structurally fail to generate a normal inflammatory or defensive response, a phenomenon observed in immunodeficiencies, terminal stages of chronic diseases, or following aggressive immunosuppressive therapies.
• Anergy — A pathological or physiological state characterized by the total absence or severe diminution of the body's reactivity (especially of the immune system) when exposed to antigens, allergens, or external stimuli. In cellular immunology, it represents a mechanism of peripheral tolerance where lymphocytes become functionally inactivated following interaction with an antigen, failing to trigger an inflammatory or defensive response.
• Antiserum — Blood serum (obtained from previously immunized humans or animals) containing a high concentration of specific antibodies directed against a particular antigen, virus, bacterium, bacterial toxin, or venom. In medical and emergency practice, antiserum is administered to provide immediate passive immunity, rapidly neutralizing dangerous pathogens or toxins released into the body before the patient's immune system can react.
• Autovaccinated — Having undergone the process of autovaccination; an organism, patient, or biological tissue specifically immunized by introducing an autogenous vaccine prepared from its own pathogenic strains.