Antigen Presentation

Flashcards on Antigen Presentation and MHC Molecules

Antigens recognized by B cells

Can be proteins, sugars, lipids, or nucleic acids and can be seen in any situation.

Antigens recognized by T cells

Small peptides presented on MHC molecules.

MHC molecules

Molecules required to trigger T cells by presenting peptides.

Lymphoid Formations

Lymphoid organs and tissues that facilitate lymphocyte recirculation for antigen encounter.

Afferent Lymphatic Vessel

The port of entry in the lymph nodes where dendritic cells bring antigens.

High Endothelial Venules (HEV)

Specialized vessels in lymph nodes that connect the lymph and blood systems.

Pattern Recognition Receptors (PRR)

Molecules engaged by PAMPs (pathogen-associated molecular patterns) or DAMPs (damage-associated molecular patterns).

Antigen Presenting Cells (APC)

Cells that perform antigen processing, breaking down large proteins into smaller peptides.

Antigen Processing

The process of breaking down captured proteins into smaller peptides by enzymes.

Accessory Molecules (CD40, CD80, CD86)

Molecules upregulated on dendritic cells during maturation, enhancing antigen presentation capabilities.

Epitopes

Antigenic determinants of a protein that can be recognized by T cells.

MHC Restriction

The restriction that CD8+ T cells only react to peptides presented on MHC class I molecules, and CD4+ T cells only react to peptides on MHC class II molecules.