Loss of HLA class I antigens by melanoma cells: molecular mechanisms, functional significance and clinical relevance.
Malignant transformation of melanocytes may be associated with changes in the expression of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) HLA class I antigens. Interest in the characterization of abnormalities in the expression of MHC class I by melanoma cells has been rekindled by the current emphasis on the application of T-cell-based immunotherapy to melanoma. Here, Soldano Ferrone and Francesco Marincola review defects in class I expression as described in melanoma cells, as well as the molecular mechanisms, functional significance and clinical implications of such defects.
Ferrone
S
S
Dept of Microbiology and Immunology, New York Medical College, Valhalla 10595, USA.
Marincola
F M
FM
D015536:Down-Regulation; D015395:Histocompatibility Antigens Class I / Q000235:genetics / Q000276:immunology*; D006801:Humans; D008545:Melanoma / Q000276:immunology*
D015395:Histocompatibility Antigens Class I