Major Histocompatibility Complex, Class II, DP Alpha 1
Major Histocompatibility Complex, Class II, DP Alpha 1 (also known as HLA-DPA1) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the HLA-DPA1 gene. This protein is a part of the Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) Class II, which plays a central role in the immune system by presenting peptides derived from extracellular proteins.
Function[edit | edit source]
HLA-DPA1 is a part of the MHC Class II, which is primarily expressed in antigen-presenting cells (APCs). These include macrophages, dendritic cells, and B cells. The function of MHC Class II is to present exogenous antigens to CD4+ T cells, which are a type of T cell that plays a crucial role in orchestrating the immune response.
Structure[edit | edit source]
The HLA-DPA1 protein is a chain of the heterodimeric MHC Class II molecule. It pairs with the DP beta chain (HLA-DPB1) to form the DP heterodimer, which is one of the three types of MHC Class II molecules. The other two types are DR and DQ.
Clinical significance[edit | edit source]
Variations in the HLA-DPA1 gene have been associated with susceptibility to various autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes, and celiac disease.
See also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
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