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Major Histocompatibility Complex

Meaning

The Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) is a cluster of genes encoding cell-surface proteins that are pivotal for the adaptive immune system’s recognition of self versus non-self. These proteins, also known as Human Leukocyte Antigens (HLA) in humans, display peptide fragments derived from pathogens or self-proteins to T-lymphocytes. The MHC’s high polymorphism is the basis for tissue matching in transplantation and is implicated in susceptibility to various autoimmune endocrine disorders, such as Type 1 Diabetes and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Understanding an individual’s MHC profile can offer insights into their immunological and inflammatory potential.