Several factors contribute to antigen heterogeneity:
1. Genetic Mutations: Changes in the DNA sequence can lead to variations in antigen expression. 2. Epigenetic Modifications: DNA methylation and histone modification can alter gene expression without changing the DNA sequence. 3. Cellular Microenvironment: Factors such as hypoxia, pH, and nutrient availability can influence antigen expression. 4. Tumor Evolution: Cancer cells can evolve and adapt, leading to a diverse population of cells with different antigen profiles. 5. Immune Response: The interaction between immune cells and target cells can lead to changes in antigen expression.
