Cryptic epitope

{
  "id": "MLC-T-CHM-002748",
  "term": "Cryptic epitope",
  "field": "Chemistry",
  "definition": "An antigenic determinant that is normally hidden within a larger protein structure or molecular complex and becomes exposed only under certain conditions, such as protein denaturation, cleavage, or conformational change. These epitopes can become targets for immune responses, potentially contributing to autoimmune diseases if self-antigens are involved. Their exposure can trigger T cell or B cell activation.",
  "subject": "Chemistry and Human Health",
  "see_also": [
    "lymphocyte"
  ],
  "references": [
    "PAC, 2012, 84, 1113. 'IUPAC glossary of terms used in immunotoxicology (IUPAC Recommendations 2012)' on page 1152 (https://doi.org/10.1351/PAC-REC-11-06-03)"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/chemistry/cryptic-epitope/"
}