What term describes the ability of immune cells to recognize trans-membrane proteins indicating "self"?

The term that describes the ability of immune cells to recognize trans-membrane proteins indicating "self" is tolerance. Tolerance is a critical mechanism in the immune system that prevents the body from attacking its own cells. This process ensures that immune cells can differentiate between self and non-self components, thus maintaining homeostasis and preventing autoimmune responses.

In the context of trans-membrane proteins, tolerance allows immune cells to recognize these molecules as part of the body's own structures, thereby avoiding an unnecessary immune reaction. This ability is essential for the immune system's function, as it must be able to respond to pathogens without damaging the body's own tissues.

Other terms like immunogenicity and antigenicity refer to the ability of substances (antigens) to provoke an immune response, rather than the recognition of self. Phagocytosis refers to the process by which certain cells engulf and digest pathogens or debris, which is a different aspect of immune function.