HLA-DRB1 Antibody (MHC II)

HLA class II histocompatibility antigen, DRB1 beta chain is a protein that in humans is encoded by the HLA-DRB1 gene. This gene is mapped to 6p21.32. DRB1 encodes the most prevalent beta subunit of HLA-DR. Several alleles of DRB1 (shared epitope alleles) are associated with an increased incidence of rheumatoid arthritis. HLA-DRB1 belongs to the HLA class II beta chain paralogs. The class II molecule is a heterodimer consisting of an alpha (DRA) and a beta chain (DRB), both anchored in the membrane. It plays a central role in the immune system by presenting peptides derived from extracellular proteins. Class II molecules are expressed in antigen presenting cells (APC: B lymphocytes, dendritic cells, macrophages). The beta chain is approximately 26-28 kDa. It is encoded by 6 exons. It plays a central role in the immune system by presenting peptides derived from extracellular proteins to T helper cells.