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T-Cell Epitopes

Meaning

T-Cell Epitopes are specific, short peptide fragments derived from a larger antigen that are recognized by T-cell receptors, initiating a targeted adaptive immune response. These molecular structures are presented on the surface of antigen-presenting cells by Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) molecules, acting as the critical recognition signal for T-lymphocytes. In the context of hormonal health, the recognition of self-epitopes is a key pathological event in autoimmune endocrine disorders like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.