HUMAN LEUKOCYTE ANTIGENS Meaning and
Definition
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Human Leukocyte Antigens (HLAs) refer to a group of proteins found on the surface of cells in the human body. These proteins play a crucial role in the immune system and are responsible for identifying self from non-self cells. HLAs are encoded by a highly polymorphic region of the human genome, known as the Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC). They are primarily expressed on the surface of white blood cells, particularly on leukocytes (white blood cells) such as lymphocytes, monocytes, and macrophages.
The main function of HLAs is to enable the immune system to distinguish between self and foreign substances, such as pathogens or transplanted tissues. They act as cellular markers that allow immune cells to recognize and bind to foreign antigens by initiating an immune response. HLAs also play a critical role in cell recognition and cell-to-cell communication, facilitating complex immune responses.
The diversity and polymorphism of HLAs result in individual variability within the human population. This diversity allows a broad range of antigens to be recognized by the immune system, enabling an effective defense against various pathogens. Moreover, HLAs are essential in organ and tissue transplantation, as matching the HLAs between the donor and recipient reduces the risk of rejection.
In summary, Human Leukocyte Antigens (HLAs) are proteins located on the surface of cells that are crucial for immune system function. They facilitate immune recognition of self and non-self cells, enabling immune responses against pathogens and promoting cell communication. The polymorphism of HLAs is crucial for the diversity of the immune response and plays a vital role in transplantation medicine.
Common Misspellings for HUMAN LEUKOCYTE ANTIGENS
- guman leukocyte antigens
- buman leukocyte antigens
- numan leukocyte antigens
- juman leukocyte antigens
- uuman leukocyte antigens
- yuman leukocyte antigens
- hyman leukocyte antigens
- hhman leukocyte antigens
- hjman leukocyte antigens
- himan leukocyte antigens
- h8man leukocyte antigens
- h7man leukocyte antigens
- hunan leukocyte antigens
- hukan leukocyte antigens
- hujan leukocyte antigens
- humzn leukocyte antigens
- humsn leukocyte antigens
- humwn leukocyte antigens
- humqn leukocyte antigens
- humab leukocyte antigens
