β2 microglobulin
Definition
β2 microglobulin is a component of MHC class I molecules, which are crucial for the presentation of endogenous antigens to cytotoxic T cells. It plays a key role in immune surveillance.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- β2 microglobulin associates non-covalently with the alpha chain of MHC class I molecules.
- It is essential for MHC class I stability and surface expression on all nucleated cells.
- Deficiency or mutations in β2 microglobulin can impair immune response and lead to diseases such as immunodeficiency.
- Elevated levels of β2 microglobulin can be indicative of certain cancers, chronic infections, and inflammatory diseases.
- It is involved in the presentation of intracellular peptides to CD8+ T cells.
Review Questions
- What role does β2 microglobulin play in the function of MHC class I molecules?
- How does β2 microglobulin deficiency affect the immune system?
- Why might elevated levels of β2 microglobulin be clinically significant?
"β2 microglobulin" appears in:
Related terms
MHC Class I: A group of proteins found on all nucleated cells that present endogenous antigens to CD8+ T cells.
Cytotoxic T Cells (CD8+): Immune cells that kill infected or cancerous cells by recognizing antigens presented by MHC class I molecules.
Antigen-Presenting Cells (APCs): Cells that display foreign antigens complexed with major histocompatibility complexes for recognition by T cells.
