Major Histocompatibility Complex
Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC)
Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) is a set of genes that code for proteins found on the surfaces of cells that help the immune system recognize foreign substances. MHC proteins are found in all higher vertebrates. In human beings, the complex is also called the HLA (human leukocyte antigen) system.
Pronunciation
Major Histocompatibility Complex: /ˈmeɪdʒər ˌhɪstəkəmpætɪˈbɪlɪti kəmˈplɛks/
Etymology
The term "Major Histocompatibility Complex" is derived from the words "major" (meaning large or important), "histo-" (from the Greek 'histos' meaning tissue), "compatibility" (from the Latin 'compatibilis' meaning suitable), and "complex" (from the Latin 'complexus' meaning entwined or complicated).
Related Terms
- Antigen: A substance that induces an immune response in the body, especially the production of antibodies.
- Immune System: The bodily system that protects the body from foreign substances, cells, and tissues.
- Gene: The basic physical and functional unit of heredity.
- Protein: A molecule composed of polymers of amino acids joined together by peptide bonds.
- Vertebrates: Animals with a backbone or spinal column.
- Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA): The name given to the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) in humans.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Major Histocompatibility Complex
- Wikipedia's article - Major Histocompatibility Complex
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