Question

The most important antigens are ______.

Options

• nucleotides

• steroids

• triglycerides

• proteins

Answer 1

The most important antigens are proteins.

Explanation:

Proteins are the most important antigens because of their complex and high molecular weight structure, which allows them to be recognized easily by lymphocytes and to provoke a strong immune response. Other molecules like nucleotides, steroids, and triglycerides are less antigenic or not antigenic in comparison. Protein antigens are called complete antigens and can independently stimulate antibody production, whereas some other molecules may act as haptens requiring combination with proteins to elicit an immune response.