Definition

Relating to a small molecule that can trigger an immune response only when attached to a larger carrier, usually a protein.

Example

The haptenic properties of the substance made it important in vaccine development.

Conversation

I was reading about some haptenic substances in my biology class.

Oh really? What did you find interesting about them?

They can trigger immune responses even though they aren't full proteins.

That sounds fascinating! It's amazing how the immune system works.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Haptenic → It is derived from "hapten" (from Greek "haptein", meaning to fasten or bind) and the suffix "-ic" (meaning pertaining to). The term "haptenic" refers to something that is related to or characteristic of haptens, which are small molecules that can bind to larger proteins to elicit an immune response.

Memory Tip

Think of 'binding' ('haptein') when you remember that 'haptenic' relates to substances that can 'fasten' to proteins to trigger an immune reaction.

Visually Confused Words