| Literature DB >> 49564 |
Abstract
A central function of the major histo-compatibility (H) antigens may be to signal changes in self to the immune system. Virus-induced modification of strong transplantation antigens apparently results in recognition by thymus-derived lymphocytes (T cells), with subsequent clonal expansion and immune elimination of cells bearing non-self determinants. The extreme genetic polymorphism found in the major H antigen systems of higher vertebrates may reflect evolutionary pressure exerted by this immunological surveillance mechanism.Mesh:
Substances:
Year: 1975 PMID: 49564 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(75)92610-0
Source DB: PubMed Journal: Lancet ISSN: 0140-6736 Impact factor: 79.321