Antigenic drift
What Antigenic drift means in Biology A (Salters-Nuffield) A-Level, as defined for Pearson Edexcel.
Definition of Antigenic drift
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Antigenic drift in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: Pearson Edexcel
The gradual accumulation of mutations in surface antigen genes.
Topics that use Antigenic drift
- Topic 6: Immunity, Infection and Forensics (Pearson Edexcel A-Level)
Related terms
- Active immunity
- Agarose gel
- Alternative splicing
- Antibiotic stewardship
- Antibody
- Antigen
- Application of molecular techniques to plants and animals
- Artificial passive immunity
Using Antigenic drift in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Biology A (Salters-Nuffield) questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge