Antigen expression

"Antigen expression" refers to the process by which cells synthesize and display antigens—molecular structures capable of being recognized by antibodies or T-cell receptors—on their surfaces. These antigens can be derived from pathogens (foreign or non-self antigens), from the body's own tissues (self-antigens), or modified self-molecules (e.g., neoantigens in cancer). "Antigen expression" is not a discrete molecule, protein, or receptor, but rather a cellular or tissue-level phenomenon that is central to immunity, underlies processes such as infection defense, autoimmunity, vaccine action, and transplant rejection, and is manipulated by both pathogens and therapies. The genetic and molecular basis for antigen expression includes a vast array of cellular biosynthesis and surface presentation systems (such as MHC molecules), but the term does not designate a single actionable therapeutic target or gene product. If your intent is to refer to a particular antigen (e.g., "CD19 antigen" or "Prostate-specific antigen"), further specificity should be provided to map to a proper therapeutic target entry. "Antigen expression" is a biological process, not a well-defined molecular target suitable for a canonical therapeutic target entry.

Other names

Antigen presentationAntigen displayExpression of antigens