Antigens of other infectious agents or cancer

The term 'Antigens of other infectious agents or cancer' does not refer to a single molecular target or receptor but rather serves as a broad categorical classification for a diverse array of immunogenic substances. This group includes proteins, polysaccharides, and glycolipids derived from viruses, bacteria, and parasites, as well as tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) or neoantigens expressed by malignant cells (Janeway's Immunobiology, 9th ed.). These molecules are critical for the immune system to distinguish between self and non-self or altered-self, serving as the primary recognition points for antibodies and T-cell receptors (Abbas et al., Cellular and Molecular Immunology, 2021). In clinical practice, these antigens are targeted by vaccines to prevent or treat infections and by immunotherapies—such as CAR-T cells and monoclonal antibodies—to direct the immune system toward the destruction of cancerous tissue (National Cancer Institute, 'Tumor Antigens'). Because this is a functional grouping rather than a specific protein, its biological role and therapeutic application vary significantly depending on the specific pathogen or malignancy involved.

Other names

Tumor-associated antigensPathogen-specific antigensMiscellaneous antigensCancer-testis antigensInfectious agent antigens

Stimulation of active immunity, passive immunization via monoclonal antibodies, or enhancement of T-cell recognition of specific epitopes.