MHC polymorphism

Definition

MHC polymorphism refers to the variation in the Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) genes among individuals in a population. These variations play a crucial role in determining the efficacy of the immune response to pathogens, as well as compatibility in organ transplantation.

Related terms

Antigen Presentation: The process by which immune cells display antigen fragments on their surface, using MHC molecules, to initiate an immune response.

Immune Response: The body's defense mechanism activated by the immune system detecting and eliminating harmful pathogens.

Organ Transplantation: The medical procedure of transferring organs or tissues from one person (donor) to another (recipient), where MHC compatibility plays a critical role in transplant success