What is HLA-DRA Protein
In the human immune system, the human leukocyte antigen-DR alpha chain (HLA-DRA) stands as a crucial player, orchestrating various immunological responses.
The HLA-DRA protein, encoded by the HLA-DRA gene, is an integral component of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II. MHC class II molecules, comprised of alpha and beta chains, are pivotal in orchestrating immune responses. HLA-DRA, as the alpha chain, forms a heterodimer with the beta chain, prominently expressed on the surface of antigen-presenting cells (APCs). This protein serves as the linchpin in antigen presentation, a fundamental process for immune surveillance.
Figure 1. Basic structure of class II HLA. (Kongkaew, S., et al. 2019)The Function of HLA-DRA Protein
At the core of HLA-DRA's functionality lies its role in antigen presentation. APCs, including macrophages, B cells, and dendritic cells, utilize HLA-DRA to capture and present antigenic peptides to CD4+ T cells. The dynamic interplay begins with the internalization of extracellular antigens, subsequent processing into peptides, and binding to the HLA-DRA-beta chain complex within endosomes. This complex then migrates to the cell surface, serving as a beacon for CD4+ T cells, triggering a cascade of immune responses.
HLA-DRA-Related Diseases
Altered expression or function of HLA-DRA is intricately linked to various diseases. In autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and multiple sclerosis, the breakdown of immune tolerance is associated with HLA-DRA dysfunction. In infectious diseases, specific HLA-DRA alleles may dictate susceptibility or resistance, shaping the body's ability to mount effective immune responses. Furthermore, the role of HLA-DRA in cancer immunity underscores its significance, as disruptions in its function can contribute to immune evasion by malignant cells.
HLA-DRA Related Signaling Pathways
The signal pathway involving HLA-DRA is a complex choreography of molecular events. Beginning with the internalization of antigens, the subsequent binding to HLA-DRA-beta chain complexes within endosomes sets the stage for antigen presentation. As the complex translocates to the cell surface, the interaction with CD4+ T cells initiates a signaling cascade. This cascade involves CD4 binding, co-stimulatory molecule recruitment, and cytokine release, ultimately culminating in the activation of CD4+ T cells and the orchestration of immune responses.
Applications of HLA-DRA in Biomedical Research
The multifaceted role of HLA-DRA has propelled its applications in cutting-edge biomedical research. In the realm of immunotherapy, strategies to modulate HLA-DRA expression or function are being explored to enhance immune recognition and response against cancer cells. HLA-DRA's pivotal role in antigen presentation makes it a prime target for designing effective vaccines against infectious diseases. Moreover, the identification of specific HLA-DRA variants associated with diseases positions it as a biomarker for precision medicine, guiding therapeutic decisions and prognostic assessments.
In the intricate immune system, HLA-DRA coordinates antigen presentation and immune response. From its foundational role in disease pathology to its applications in pioneering biomedical research, HLA-DRA stands as a focal point in the quest for understanding and manipulating immune mechanisms. As research advances, the revelations surrounding HLA-DRA promise not only to deepen our comprehension of immunology but also to usher in innovative therapeutic interventions and diagnostic strategies.
Recommended Products for HLA-DRA Protein
| Cat.# | Species | Product name | Source (Host) | Tag |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HLA-DRA-490H | Human | Recombinant Human major histocompatibility complex, class II, DR alpha, His-tagged | E.coli | His |
| HLA-DRA-5321H | Human | Recombinant Human HLA-DRA protein, His-tagged | E.coli | His |
| HLA-DRA-353H | Human | Recombinant Human HLA-DRA Protein, His-tagged | E.coli | His |
| HLA-DRA-2300H | Human | Recombinant Human HLA-DRA Protein (26-254 aa), His-tagged | Yeast | His |
| HLA-DRA-231H | Human | Recombinant Human HLA-DRA protein, GST-tagged | E. coli | GST |
| HLA-DRA-3571H | Human | Recombinant Human HLA-DRA Protein (Lys27-Glu216), His tagged | E.coli | His |
Reference
- Kongkaew, S., et al. Interactions of HLA-DR and Topoisomerase I Epitope Modulated Genetic Risk for Systemic Sclerosis. Sci Rep. 2019, 9: 745.
