What does the term 'epitope' specifically describe?

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An entire antigen moleculeA small molecule known as a haptenA substance that triggers an immune responseThe smallest part of an antigen recognized by the immune systemA protein that stimulates antibody production

Explanation

An epitope is the smallest portion of an antigen that is recognized by antibodies or immune cells. It is distinct from the whole antigen molecule, hapten, or immunogen, which refer to larger or different entities involved in immune responses.