Final answer:
Good immunogenicity is influenced by the antigen's molecular size, complexity, the presence of antigenic determinants, molecular class, foreignness, stability, and the dosage, route, and timing of exposure. Proteins usually make the most effective antigens.
Step-by-step explanation:
Seven characteristics that determine a good versus poor antigen in terms of immunogenicity include:
- Molecular size: Larger molecules are generally more immunogenic than smaller ones as they provide more epitopes for immune cell recognition.
- Molecular complexity: More complex molecules with a variety of shapes and structures are more effective in stimulating immune responses.
- Presence of antigenic determinants (epitopes): The specific parts of the antigen that are recognized by immune cells are crucial for triggering an immune response.
- Molecular class: Proteins are typically the most immunogenic, followed by carbohydrates, with lipids and nucleic acids being the least immunogenic.
- Foreignness: An antigen must be recognized as foreign by the host immune system to elicit a strong immune response.
- Stability: Antigens should be stable enough to be processed and recognized by the immune system.
- Dosage, route, and timing: The amount of antigen, the path it takes to enter the body, and the timing between exposures can impact immunogenicity.
These factors greatly influence whether an antigen is capable of effectively stimulating the immune system to produce a specific and robust response to pathogens, resulting in proper immunization.