The structure of human MHC class II genes.
The class II molecules of the human major histocompatibility complex bind intracellularly processed peptides and present them to T-helper cells. They therefore have a critical role in the initiation of the immune response. A salient feature of the class II molecules is their polymorphism. It has been shown that some autoimmune diseases are associated with certain class II alleles. This article reviews the basic structural features of class II molecules, and the genes encoding them as well as mechanisms governing the development of their extraordinary polymorphism.
Department of Cell Research, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala Biomedical Center.
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Rask
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Jonsson
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Svensson
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Gustafsson
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Andersson
D001327:Autoimmune Diseases / Q000235:genetics; D002874:Chromosome Mapping; D005802:Genes, MHC Class II / Q000235:genetics*; D006682:HLA-DP Antigens / Q000235:genetics; D006683:HLA-DQ Antigens / Q000235:genetics; D006684:HLA-DR Antigens / Q000235:genetics; D006801:Humans; D008958:Models, Molecular; D011110:Polymorphism, Genetic; D012641:Selection, Genetic
D006682:HLA-DP Antigens; D006683:HLA-DQ Antigens; D006684:HLA-DR Antigens