Conclusion – Difference Between MHC Class 1 and MHC Class 2 Proteins

MHC Class I Proteins

The MHC Class I proteins, also known as Major Histocompatibility Complex Class I proteins, are crucial components of the immune system. MHC class I proteins allow for the recognition of molecules produced within the cell, such as viral or tumor antigens, by cytotoxic T cells or killer T cells....

MHC Class II Proteins

The MHC Class II proteins are essential components of the immune system involved in antigen presentation and immune regulation. They play a crucial role in recognizing and presenting antigens derived from the extracellular pathogens to CD4+ T cells, also known as helper T cells. Let’s explore the characteristics and functions of the MHC Class II proteins....

Difference Between MHC Class I and MHC Class II Proteins

Characteristics MHC Class I Proteins MHC Class II Proteins Structure The α chain + β2-microglobulin the α chain + β chain Cell Surface Expression The ubiquitous (expressed on most nucleated cells) The restricted to the antigen-presenting cells (dendritic cells, macrophages, B cells) Antigen Source Intracellular pathogens (viruses, intracellular bacteria) Extracellular pathogens (bacteria, parasites) Antigen Processing Endogenous pathway: antigens derived from inside the cell are processed and presented on MHC Class I molecules Exogenous pathway: antigens internalized from the extracellular environment are processed and presented on MHC Class II molecules Peptide Size Small peptides (8-10 amino acids) Larger peptides (13-25 amino acids) T Cell Interaction The CD8+ T cells (cytotoxic T cells) The CD4+ T cells (helper T cells) Co-receptor The CD8 molecule The CD4 molecule Immune Function Cytotoxicity (killing infected or abnormal cells) The immune regulation, coordination, and activation of other immune cells Location Present of all nucleated cells Present primarily on antigen-presenting cells...

MHC I vs MHC II Diagram

The diagram of Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) Proteins are given below:...

Conclusion – Difference Between MHC Class 1 and MHC Class 2 Proteins

In conclusion, MHC Class I proteins are expressed on most nucleated cells and present antigens from intracellular pathogens to cytotoxic T cells for cell killing. On the other hand, MHC Class II proteins are restricted to antigen-presenting cells and present antigens from extracellular pathogens to helper T cells for immune regulation and activation. Studying the difference between MHC Class 1 and MHC Class 2 Proteins helps in the understanding how the immune system distinguishes between different types of pathogens. It also aids in understanding the roles of different immune cells and their interactions in the immune response against infections....

FAQs on Difference Between MHC Class 1 and MHC Class 2 Proteins

What is the Role of MHC Proteins in the Immune System?...