Final answer:
The Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) proteins are responsible for recognizing foreign cells and preventing tissue transplantation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The cell surface protein responsible for the recognition of foreign cells and prevention of tissue transplantation is the Major histocompatibility complex (MHC). MHC molecules are expressed on the surface of all nucleated cells and play a crucial role in immune recognition. They present foreign antigens to T cells, triggering an immune response to eliminate the foreign cells.