Genetics of the central MHC.
The MHC, primarily known for its antigen-presenting class I and II molecules, harbours, within a central segment of less than 1 Mb, a dense collection of genes involved in various biological functions. Although MHC I and MHC II are principal players of adaptive immunity, several loci within this central (still called class III) MHC region encode members of the innate immune system. These include the long known factors of the complement system--potentially inhibitory and triggering natural killer receptors as well as stress proteins. Whether this physical proximity is fortuitous or functionally advantageous is an important question for the future of MHC genetics.
Hauptmann
Georges
G
Centre de Recherche d'Immunologie et d'Hématologie, Faculté de Médecine, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, 4 rue Kirschleger, F-67085 Strasbourg Cedex, France. georges.hauptmann@hemato-ulp.u-strasbg.fr
Bahram
Seiamak
S
D000818:Animals; D003165:Complement System Proteins / Q000235:genetics* / Q000276:immunology; D006801:Humans; D007113:Immunity, Innate; D008285:Major Histocompatibility Complex / Q000235:genetics* / Q000276:immunology
D003165:Complement System Proteins