Abstract
Chemical modifications of antigens alter some of their physicochemical properties such as electric charge, hydrophilicity, rigidity and the state of microaggregation. Chemical modifications of antigens may destroy native antigenic determinants and expose new antigenic determinants (NAD). The NAD may be recognized by T cells which in turn help to stimulate a stronger immune response. Chemical modification of the antigen may not only improve its immunological potential but also effect a selective stimulation of T cell mediated immune responses. In addition, chemical modification of the antigen may reduce its relative affinity for cellular receptors. Consequently, only T cells which require lower binding energy than B cells for activation can be stimulated, and T cell mediated immune responses such as a delayed type hypersensitivity result. The reason for preferential induction of cellular immunity by some chemically modified antigens and preferential induction of humoral antibody response by antigens chemically modified in some other ways is still unknown. However, the potential practical advantages of using chemically modified antigens are obvious. Chemical modification might confer immunogenicity to nonimmunogenic ligands, might improve immunogenicity of weak antigens, and might change the immunologic features of other antigens in suhh a way as to selectively induce a more desirable T cell mediated response (130 references).
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 107-146 |
Number of pages | 40 |
Journal | Progress in Allergy |
Volume | Vol. 22 |
State | Published - 1977 |