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Nature Cell Biology 2, E75 (1 May 2000) | doi:10.1038/35010504

Origins of antigenic peptides

Valerie Depraetere

Peptides derived from cellular proteins are continuously exposed at the cell surface, in association with MHC class I molecules. Recognition of these MHC–peptide complexes by circulating lymphocytes is critical to the immune system|[rsquo]|s tolerance of self-derived antigenic peptides, and to the onset of immune reactions against exogenous peptide antigens, such as viral antigens.