HLA-DR

HLA-DR is a part of the HLA system, a group of genes in humans that plays a crucial role in the immune system. The HLA-DR gene provides instructions for making a protein that plays a critical role in the immune system. HLA-DR is a type of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) and belongs to the MHC class II group.

Function

HLA-DR is involved in the immune system's response to foreign substances. It does this by presenting peptides (small pieces of proteins) from outside the cell to the immune system. This triggers an immune response, including the production of antibodies.

Structure

The HLA-DR molecule is a heterodimer, meaning it is made up of two different proteins. These proteins are encoded by two different genes: HLA-DRA, which encodes the alpha chain, and HLA-DRB, which encodes the beta chain. The alpha chain is constant, while the beta chain can vary, leading to different HLA-DR types.

Role in Disease

Certain variations of the HLA-DR gene are associated with an increased risk of developing certain autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and type 1 diabetes. In these diseases, the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells.

See Also

• Major histocompatibility complex
• Autoimmune disease
• Human leukocyte antigen

HLA-DR Resources
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