MHC I Meaning and
Definition
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MHC I, also known as major histocompatibility complex class I, refers to a group of proteins that are found on the surface of every nucleated cell in the body of vertebrates. It plays a crucial role in the immune system's ability to recognize non-self or foreign molecules, such as viral or bacterial antigens, and initiate an immune response.
MHC I molecules are encoded by a highly polymorphic gene family known as the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) in humans. These molecules consist of a heavy chain protein (alpha chain) that is noncovalently linked to a smaller protein called beta-2 microglobulin. Together, they form the MHC I molecule, which is responsible for presenting antigens derived from the cell's cytoplasmic proteins to immune cells, specifically CD8+ T cells.
The MHC I molecules act as a "display platform" to present these antigens by binding to short peptide fragments derived from intracellular proteins. This allows the immune system to detect and eliminate infected or cancerous cells that display abnormal or foreign antigens.
Moreover, the recognition of MHC I-bound antigens by CD8+ T cells enables the initiation of a specific immune response by activating the T cells to destroy the infected or abnormal cells.
The diversity of MHC I molecules is crucial for their ability to present a wide range of antigens, ensuring an effective immune response against various pathogens. MHC I molecules play a vital role in immune surveillance and are essential for the body's overall defense against infections and diseases.
Common Misspellings for MHC I
- khc i
- jhc i
- mbc i
- muc i
- mhx i
- mhf i
- mhd i
- mhc u
- mhc k
- mhc o
- mhc 8
- nmhc i
- mnhc i
- kmhc i
- mkhc i
- jmhc i
- mjhc i
- mghc i
- mhgc i
- mbhc i
Etymology of MHC I
The acronym MHC I stands for Major Histocompatibility Complex class I. "MHC" stands for Major Histocompatibility Complex, which is a cluster of genes that encode for a group of proteins involved in the immune system. The term "histocompatibility" refers to the compatibility of a tissue or organ for transplantation. The term "major" signifies the importance of this complex in immune responses. The number "I" represents the first class of the Major Histocompatibility Complex, which relates to a specific group of proteins encoded by these genes.
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