MHC Class I

MHC Class I molecules are proteins found on the surface of most human cells that help the immune system recognize which cells belong to the body. They display small pieces of proteins (antigens) from inside the cell, such as parts of viruses or abnormal proteins from cancer cells. If immune cells detect these antigens as foreign or abnormal, they can target and destroy the affected cells. MHC Class I molecules are essential for immune surveillance, ensuring that infected or damaged cells are identified and eliminated to maintain overall health.