HISTOCOMPATIBILITY COMPLEX Meaning and
Definition
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The histocompatibility complex, also known as the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) system, is a crucial genetic system found in vertebrates, responsible for regulating the recognition of self and non-self antigens. It is located on chromosome 6 in humans and is highly polymorphic, meaning it exhibits significant genetic diversity within the population. The histocompatibility complex plays a central role in the immune response and functions as a major determinant for successful transplantation and immune surveillance against pathogens.
The histocompatibility complex consists of a large number of genes, including both class I and class II HLA genes. Class I genes encode molecules found on most nucleated cells and present intracellular antigens to cytotoxic T-cells, triggering an immune response against infected cells. Class II genes, on the other hand, are primarily expressed on antigen-presenting cells and present extracellular antigens to helper T-cells to initiate an immune response.
Due to its polymorphic nature, the histocompatibility complex is crucial in distinguishing self from non-self antigens and maintaining immunological tolerance. Compatibility within this complex is an essential criterion for organ and tissue transplantation to prevent rejection by the recipient's immune system. Furthermore, HLA typing is essential in determining the likelihood of autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and type 1 diabetes, as they are associated with specific HLA alleles.
Overall, the histocompatibility complex plays a fundamental role in the immune system, transplantation, and disease susceptibility, making it a critical area of study in immunology and genetics.
Common Misspellings for HISTOCOMPATIBILITY COMPLEX
- gistocompatibility complex
- bistocompatibility complex
- nistocompatibility complex
- jistocompatibility complex
- uistocompatibility complex
- yistocompatibility complex
- hustocompatibility complex
- hjstocompatibility complex
- hkstocompatibility complex
- hostocompatibility complex
- h9stocompatibility complex
- h8stocompatibility complex
- hiatocompatibility complex
- hiztocompatibility complex
- hixtocompatibility complex
- hidtocompatibility complex
- hietocompatibility complex
- hiwtocompatibility complex
- hisrocompatibility complex
- hisfocompatibility complex
Etymology of HISTOCOMPATIBILITY COMPLEX
The word "histocompatibility" is derived from three different components: "hista", "compatibility", and "complex".
1. "Hista" is a combining form derived from the Greek word "histos", which means "tissue". The prefix "histo-" is commonly used in various medical terms related to the body's tissues, such as histology (the study of tissues), histopathology (the study of diseased tissues), etc.
2. "Compatibility" is a noun formed from the Latin word "compatibilis", which means "fitting together". It signifies the ability of substances or individuals to coexist or work well together without causing harm or interference.
3. "Complex" is a term derived from the Latin word "complexus", meaning "entwined" or "twisted together". It denotes a group of interconnected or interrelated elements, often forming a whole or a system.
