Final answer:
Immunodominant epitopes are epitopes recognized by the immune system with high specificity, leading to a strong immune response. Loss of these epitopes weakens the immune response as they are central to the immune system's ability to target pathogens effectively.
Step-by-step explanation:
Immunodominant epitopes refer to epitopes that are recognized by the immune system with high specificity. Such epitopes are preferentially targeted by the immune system because of their strong antigenic properties, meaning they are better at eliciting an immune response. Antigen-presenting cells (APCs) present these epitopes, which are then recognized by T cells, leading to a more robust immune reaction. If immunodominant epitopes are lost, the result is a weakened immune response, making it harder for the body to defend itself against pathogens.
An antibody may react with different epitopes, and the strength of this reaction is described in terms of affinity and avidity. The specificity and versatility of antibodies and T cells are crucial for the adaptive immune response, which has the ability to recognize and respond to a vast range of pathogens thanks to the extensive variability of receptors present on B and T lymphocytes.