Nonself

Definition

A term used in immunology to describe any entity that is recognized as foreign or different from the organism's own cells and tissues.

Etymology

From Latin 'non' meaning 'not', and 'self', referring to the organism's own biological entities.

Example

The immune system distinguishes between self and nonself antigens, attacking foreign invaders like bacteria or viruses.

Related Terms

• Immune response
• Antigens
• Foreign