HLA D Meaning and
Definition
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HLA-D, also known as human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-D, is a protein complex found on the surface of immune cells that plays a crucial role in the immune response of humans. It is a cell surface receptor that presents antigens to immune cells, specifically CD4+ T cells, which are a type of white blood cell involved in coordinating immune responses.
HLA-D is a major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II protein, meaning it is encoded by genes within the MHC region of the human genome. This complex consists of two chains: an alpha chain and a beta chain. The alpha and beta chains are produced from separate genes called HLA-DRA and HLA-DRB, respectively, and together they form the HLA-D molecule.
The primary function of HLA-D is to present fragments of foreign substances, known as antigens, to T cells. These antigens can be derived from pathogens, such as bacteria or viruses, as well as from benign substances like pollen or food proteins. By displaying antigens on the cell surface, HLA-D allows T cells to recognize and mount a specific immune response against the corresponding antigen.
HLA-D is highly polymorphic, meaning there are numerous variations of the protein, which contributes to the diverse immune responses seen in different individuals. The diversity of HLA-D molecules is important for the recognition of a wide range of antigens, enabling an effective immune defense against various pathogens. HLA-D polymorphism also plays a role in certain autoimmune diseases and transplant rejection, as differences in HLA-D molecules between individuals can lead to immune dysfunction and the recognition of self-antigens as foreign.
Common Misspellings for HLA D
- nla d
- jla d
- ula d
- yla d
- hka d
- hpa d
- hoa d
- hlz d
- hls d
- hlw d
- hlq d
- ghla d
- hgla d
- bhla d
- hbla d
- nhla d
- hnla d
- jhla d
- hjla d
- hula d
Etymology of HLA D
The abbreviation "HLA D" refers to the human leukocyte antigen class II molecule. The term "HLA" stands for human leukocyte antigen, which refers to a system of genes that encode cell surface proteins involved in the immune response. These genes were first identified and studied in the context of organ transplantation and the immune system.
The letter "D" specifically denotes the class II region of the HLA system, which is responsible for presenting antigens to immune cells (specifically helper T cells). This region includes the genes HLA-DP, HLA-DQ, and HLA-DR, which code for proteins known as MHC (major histocompatibility complex) II molecules.
Therefore, the etymology of the term "HLA D" lies in the origin of the broader HLA system, which was initially discovered and named in the field of immunogenetics.
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