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The Curious Bag
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Major histocompatibility (MHC) molecules help T-cells recognize their antigen, according to Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIU). This recognition prompts T-cell activation and the release of lymphokines.
How It Works
MHC molecules bind themselves to pathogens. These MHC molecules act as beacons for roving T-cells, which attack the pathogen.
Class I MHC
Two polypeptide chains combine to form Class I MHC molecules, according to SIU. Class I MHC molecules identify the antigen epitope for T-cells.
Class II MHC
Class II MHC molecules are also composed of two polypeptide chains. The antigen epitope is identified for the T-cells by these molecules.
Difference
Class I MHC molecules identify antigens that could be tumor proteins or viral proteins. Class II molecules, by contrast, identify fragments of bacteria or virus that have been processed by a macrophage.
Placement
Class I MHC is found on almost every cell, according to SIU. Class II is only on macrophages, B-cells, and other antigen-presenting cells.
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