Definition

A type of antibody that mistakenly targets and reacts with the body's own cells or proteins instead of foreign invaders like bacteria or viruses.

Example

The presence of autoantibodies can indicate an autoimmune disease.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of an autoantibody?

Yeah, I think it's something related to the immune system, right?

Exactly! An autoantibody can mistakenly attack the body's own tissues.

That's fascinating! I didn't know our bodies could do that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Autoantibody → It is formed from "auto-" (from Greek "αὐτός" meaning self) and "antibody" (from Greek "ἀντί" meaning against and "σῶμα" meaning body). The word refers to an antibody that is directed against one's own body or self.

Memory Tip

Think of 'self' ('auto-') and 'against the body' ('antibody') to remember that an autoantibody is an antibody that attacks the body's own cells.

Visually Confused Words