HISTOCOMPATIBILITY ANTIGENS Meaning and
Definition
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Histocompatibility antigens are cell surface molecules present in nearly all vertebrates that play a crucial role in the immune response and in certain medical procedures such as tissue or organ transplantation. Also known as human leukocyte antigens (HLAs) in humans, these antigens are responsible for distinguishing self from non-self cells and help the immune system recognize foreign invaders such as pathogens or transplanted tissue.
Histocompatibility antigens are highly polymorphic, meaning they exist in multiple forms within a population, allowing for a wide range of potential matches in transplantation. They are categorized into two main classes: class I and class II antigens.
Class I antigens, found on the surface of most nucleated cells, are encoded by genes within the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) and play a key role in presenting intracellular antigens to cytotoxic T cells, triggering an immune response against infected or transformed cells.
Class II antigens, found primarily on immune cells such as B cells, dendritic cells, and macrophages, serve as the main mediators for presenting antigens derived from extracellular sources to helper T cells, stimulating the immune system to mount a response against these invaders.
In the context of transplantation, histocompatibility antigens are used to assess the compatibility between a potential donor and recipient. A close match in these antigens reduces the likelihood of rejection and increases the chances of a successful transplant. Additionally, histocompatibility antigens are also important in immunogenetics research and determining genetic ancestry.
Common Misspellings for HISTOCOMPATIBILITY ANTIGENS
- gistocompatibility antigens
- bistocompatibility antigens
- nistocompatibility antigens
- jistocompatibility antigens
- uistocompatibility antigens
- yistocompatibility antigens
- hustocompatibility antigens
- hjstocompatibility antigens
- hkstocompatibility antigens
- hostocompatibility antigens
- h9stocompatibility antigens
- h8stocompatibility antigens
- hiatocompatibility antigens
- hiztocompatibility antigens
- hixtocompatibility antigens
- hidtocompatibility antigens
- hietocompatibility antigens
- hiwtocompatibility antigens
- hisrocompatibility antigens
- hisfocompatibility antigens
Etymology of HISTOCOMPATIBILITY ANTIGENS
The word "Histocompatibility" is derived from the combination of two Latin terms: "histo" which means tissue, and "compatibility" which means the ability to exist or function together without conflict.
The term "antigen" is derived from two Greek words: "anti" meaning against, and "gen" meaning to produce or generate. In immunology, an antigen refers to a substance that can stimulate an immune response in the body.
Therefore, "Histocompatibility Antigens" refers to the proteins or molecules present on the surface of cells that determine whether tissues from one individual can be accepted or rejected by another individual's immune system. These antigens play a crucial role in organ transplantation and determining the compatibility between a donor and recipient.
