Question

What is meant by sensitisation of allergen?

(a) When an allergen leaves the body

(b) The first contact of an allergen

(c) The incubation period of an allergen

(d) When symptoms of the disease appear

I have been asked this question in an interview.

My query is from Human Health and Disease topic in section Human Health and Disease of Biology – Class 12

Answer 1

Right option is (b) The first contact of an allergen

To elaborate: The allergen on first contact functions as a mild antigen. This process is called sensitisation. It produces antibodies which remain attached to the mast cells. These mast cells then release histamine and cause inflammatory responses in the body.