Antisera – Definition & Meaning

Antisera is a term that is often used in the field of immunology and medicine. It refers to a group of serum proteins that are produced in response to the presence of an antigen in the body. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of antisera, its origin, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and examples of its use in sentences.

Definitions

Antisera is a term used to describe a group of serum proteins that are produced by the immune system in response to the presence of an antigen. These proteins are also known as antibodies and are used by the body to fight against infections and diseases.

Origin

The term antisera comes from the Latin word “anti,” which means “against,” and “serum,” which refers to the clear, yellowish fluid that separates from blood when it clots. The first use of antisera can be traced back to the early 20th century when scientists discovered that the immune system produces antibodies in response to antigens.

Meaning in different dictionaries

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, antisera is defined as “a serum containing antibodies against a specific antigen.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “a serum containing antibodies that are specific to a particular antigen.”

Associations

Antisera is often associated with the field of immunology and medicine. It is used in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases such as hepatitis, rabies, and tetanus. Antisera is also used in research to study the immune system and develop new treatments for diseases.

Synonyms

Some synonyms of antisera include antibodies, immunoglobulins, and serums.

Antonyms

There are no specific antonyms for antisera, but it can be contrasted with antigens, which are substances that trigger the immune system to produce antibodies.

The same root words

The same root words as antisera include antiserum, antitoxin, and antivenom.

Example Sentences

1. The patient was given an injection of antisera to treat the infection.
2. The scientist used antisera to study the immune response to the virus.
3. The doctor ordered a blood test to check for the presence of antisera in the patient’s blood.
4. The researchers developed a new type of antisera that was more effective against the disease.
5. The vaccine works by stimulating the production of antisera in the body.