HLA-DM

HLA-DM is a protein that plays a crucial role in the immune system. It is involved in the presentation of antigens to T cells, which is a key step in the immune response. HLA-DM is encoded by two genes, HLA-DMA and HLA-DMB, which are located in the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) on chromosome 6.

Function

HLA-DM functions as a catalyst in the exchange of peptides bound to MHC class II molecules. This process is essential for the presentation of antigens to T cells. Without HLA-DM, the immune response would be less efficient and less specific.

Structure

The HLA-DM protein is a heterodimer, consisting of two subunits, alpha and beta. Each subunit is encoded by a separate gene, HLA-DMA and HLA-DMB. The protein has a similar structure to other MHC class II molecules, but it does not bind peptides in the same way.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the genes encoding HLA-DM can lead to immune system disorders. For example, a deficiency in HLA-DM has been associated with autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and type 1 diabetes.

See also

• Major histocompatibility complex
• Antigen presentation
• T cell
• Autoimmune disease

References

HLA-DM Resources
Need Help Finding a Doctor? Need help finding a doctor or specialist anywhere in the world? Explore our world directory. WikiMD's DocFinder can assist you in locating millions of physicians.	Medical Knowledge Access the latest research - Most recent articles Ongoing trials.

Translate to: East Asian 中文, 日本, 한국어, South Asian हिन्दी, Urdu, বাংলা, తెలుగు, தமிழ், ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian Indonesian, Vietnamese, Thai, မြန်မာဘာသာ, European español, Deutsch, français, русский, português do Brasil, Italian, polski