How do T-cell receptors, MHC molecules and superantigens get together?
The current model of superantigen activity assumes that the superantigen simultaneously binds to both the MHC molecule on the presenting cell and the V beta element of the TCR, resulting in crosslinking of both molecules and subsequent activation of the T cell. Here, David Woodland and Marcia Blackman discuss the concept that there is an additional interaction between the TCR and MHC molecule during superantigen engagement and the significant impact this has on superantigen specificity and function.
Woodland
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DL
Dept of Immunology, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105.
Blackman
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MA
D000818:Animals; D000956:Antigens, Viral / Q000276:immunology*; D008213:Lymphocyte Activation; D008285:Major Histocompatibility Complex / Q000276:immunology*; D011948:Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell / Q000276:immunology*; D013601:T-Lymphocytes / Q000276:immunology
D000956:Antigens, Viral; D011948:Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell