In this article, I briefly describe the two important globin proteins, hemoglobin and myoglobin, and their functions. The globin proteins The globin family of proteins having similar primary and tertiary structures is found in all classes of eukaryotes and some bacteria. The main function of globins is to store and transport oxygen. In mammals, there … Read more >>
In this article, I briefly explain how the antigen-presenting cells cross-present antigens. Types of antigens There are different pathways employed by the immune system for eradicating intracellular and extracellular pathogens. The antigens generated within the cell are known as endogenous antigens. These antigens are processed by the cytosolic or endogenous pathway and presented on the … Read more >>
In this article, I briefly describe the expression of MHC molecules. MHC molecule and its expression The major histocompatibility complex (MHC), consists of a group of genes coding for proteins present on cell surfaces that help the immune system recognize foreign substances. The MHC molecules are encoded by a cluster of closely associated genes, known … Read more >>
In this article, I briefly describe the process of electrophoresis and how protein purification is related to specific activity. Separation of proteins and chromatography The cells contain thousands of varieties of proteins that can be separated based on size, charge, or binding properties. A protein can be studied in detail only when it can be … Read more >>
In this article, I briefly describe the types of receptors in our immune system. Receptors of the immune system The cells of our immune system use various receptors to recognize ligands. Some receptors, like pattern recognition receptors (PRRS), are found in both innate and adaptive immune cells. However, B-cell receptors (BCRs) and T-cell receptors (TCRs) … Read more >>
In this article, I briefly explain the beginning of the immune response in the secondary lymphoid organs. Development of lymphocytes Development of lymphocytes takes place in the primary lymphoid system. However, the response is initiated in the secondary lymphoid organs as soon as the lymphocytes encounter antigens in the microenvironment. The bone marrow and the … Read more >>
In this article, I briefly describe MHC genes and their inheritance. Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) Vertebrate DNA consists of a large locus known as the major histocompatibility complex (MHC). The MHC locus consists of a cluster of closely linked polymorphic genes coding for cell surface proteins vital for adaptive immunity. Different MHC proteins bind and … Read more >>
In this article, I briefly explain about the communication between innate immunity and adaptive immunity. Innate immunity Innate immunity accounts for the first line of defense against harmful pathogens. It gives uniform response to all types of harmful pathogens, therefore, also known as the non-specific immunity. Innate immunity is quite important to keep us healthy. … Read more >>
In this article, I briefly explain the diseases that happen due to complement deficiencies and strategies evolved by microbes to evade the complement attack. The components of the complement system The complement system consists of a set of more than fifty serum proteins that assist in both innate and adaptive immunity to eliminate harmful pathogens. … Read more >>
In this article, I briefly explain about the various ways of functioning of the complement system. The complement system The complement system includes more than fifty serum proteins that assist both innate immunity and adaptive immunity to abolish pathogens, dead cells, and immune complexes from the body. Complement proteins can form complexes with antibodies and … Read more >>