HYPERVARIABLE REGION Meaning and
Definition
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Hypervariable region refers to a segment of a DNA or protein sequence that exhibits an exceptionally high degree of variation among different individuals or species. These regions are also known as antigenic determinants or complementary determining regions (CDRs). They play a crucial role in the immune response and are primarily found in antibodies or immune cell receptors.
In the context of DNA, hypervariable regions are found in genes responsible for immune system function, such as those encoding immunoglobulins or major histocompatibility complex (MHC) proteins. These regions contain a diverse set of nucleotide sequences that result in a wide range of protein products, allowing for recognition and binding of different antigens.
In proteins, hypervariable regions are found in the antigen-binding site, specifically in the variable domains of antibodies or T-cell receptors. These regions contain amino acid sequences that are responsible for recognizing and binding to specific antigens, such as foreign pathogens or cancer cells. The high variability in these regions enables the immune system to respond to a wide variety of antigens and adapt to evolving threats.
Hypervariable regions are crucial for immune system diversity, as they provide the ability to recognize and target a vast array of foreign substances. They contribute to the specificity and effectiveness of the immune response, allowing for the recognition and elimination of pathogens and other harmful entities. Understanding and analyzing hypervariable regions is fundamental in fields like immunology, genetics, and drug development, as it provides insights into the mechanisms of immune recognition and potential therapeutic targets.
Common Misspellings for HYPERVARIABLE REGION
- gypervariable region
- bypervariable region
- nypervariable region
- jypervariable region
- uypervariable region
- yypervariable region
- htpervariable region
- hgpervariable region
- hhpervariable region
- hupervariable region
- h7pervariable region
- h6pervariable region
- hyoervariable region
- hylervariable region
- hy-ervariable region
- hy0ervariable region
- hypwrvariable region
- hypsrvariable region
- hypdrvariable region
- hyprrvariable region
Etymology of HYPERVARIABLE REGION
The etymology of the term "Hypervariable Region" can be understood by breaking it down into its components:
1. Hyper: The prefix "hyper-" comes from the Greek word "huper" (ὑπέρ), meaning "over" or "beyond". It is often used to convey an excessive or exaggerated quality.
2. Variable: The word "variable" is derived from the Latin word "variabilis", which means "changeable" or "capable of varying". It refers to something that can vary or change.
3. Region: The term "region" originates from the Latin word "regio", which translates to "a district" or "a portion". It signifies a specific area or part within a larger whole.
