Makes Scents Mar 21, 2008
So when it comes to reproduction, women in particular seek out individuals who carry a certain set of genes, known as the major histocompatibility complex (MHC). The more dissimilar a couple s MHC genes, the better their offspring s immune system. (Fox News)
Evaluation of MHC class I peptide binding prediction servers: applications for vaccine research Mar 17, 2008
A number of prediction servers are available for identification of peptides that bind major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC-I) molecules. The lack of standardized methodology and large number of human MHC-I molecules make the selection of appropriate prediction servers difficult. (BioMed Central)
Are Immune System Molecules Brain-Builders--And Destroyers? Mar 4, 2008
A team led by neuroscientist Carla Shatz was running a routine procedure designed to identify genes regulated by neuronal firing when an unexpected one popped up that codes for major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules, which play a crucial role in helping the immune system recognize invading pathogens. Further study revealed that these so-called immune proteins are actually present on the surface of certain nerve cells, but that they functioned differently in the brain than they... (Scientific American)
News of the Weird Jan 31, 2008
Eric Holzle's tests each person's "major histocompatibility complex" (MHC) genes, the science behind which dictates how one person will translate the scent of another (with similar-processing people less compatible). In one famous study, women preferred the smell of T-shirts from men whose MHC was the most different from their own. (Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier)
Immunomedics Awarded U.S. Patent for Internalizing Anti-CD74 Antibodies and Methods of Use Jan 8, 2008
The patent covers the composition of matter for humanized, chimeric and human anti-CD74 antibodies, CD74 antibody fusion proteins, immunoconjugates, vaccines and bispecific antibodies that bind to CD74, the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class-II invariant chain, Ii, which is potentially useful for the treatment and diagnosis of B-cell disorders, such as B-cell malignancies, other malignancies in which the cells are reactive with CD74, and autoimmune diseases, and methods of treatment... (Primezone Releases)
Looking for a love match Jan 4, 2008
It will do this, so it says, by examining a DNA sample you supply to identify major histocompatibility complex (MHC) markers. MHCs, for you non-biologists, refers to the immune system. (MSNBC -- Health)
Selection Of Successful Sperms Influenced By Female Grey Mouse Lemurs Jan 4, 2008
Here the so called MHC-genes (major histocompatibility complex) are important. Genes of this group are important components of the body s immune system; they identify disease agents and activate immune reactions. (Science Daily)
Forget mistletoe - what about DNA? Dec 15, 2007
A new dating service matches singles using major histocompatibility complex genes ... G. Dutton, "What we can learn from the elite controllers," The Scientist, November, 2006 Garver-Apcar C.E. et al., "Major histocompatibility complex alleles, sexual responsivity, and unfaithfulness in romantic couples," Psychol Sci, 17:830-5, 2006. (The Scientist)
Predicting peptides binding to MHC class II molecules using multi-objective evolutionary algorithms Nov 22, 2007
Peptides binding to Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) class II molecules are crucial for initiation and regulation of immune responses. Predicting peptides that bind to a specific MHC molecule plays an important role in determining potential candidates for vaccines. (BioMed Central)
Poxvirus' Ability To Hide From The Immune System May Aid Vaccine Design Nov 20, 2007
Normally the immune system in mice and humans can learn of a viral invasion through a group of molecules known as the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I. Because these molecules sit on the surfaces of cells and display samples of proteins from inside the cells, they act as identification badges, in effect telling immune system sentinels, "here's what I'm made of." When immune T cells see virus-derived protein fragments in a cell's MHC class I display, they assume it's been infected... (Science Daily)
Immune System Research Hold Promise For Alzheimer's, Stroke, And Mental Disorders Nov 8, 2007
Several years ago, researchers at Harvard Medical School made the unexpected discovery that neurons have major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules on their cell surface. MHC class I molecules play a central role in a healthy, functioning immune system by helping the body recognize and destroy disease-infected cells. (Science Daily)
Scientists reveal how mice recognize each other Nov 3, 2007
For many years scientists assumed that a particular set of genes, called the major histocompatibility complex (MHC), helped animals to identify individuals within their own species through their scent. Each individual has a different MHC code. (Xinhuanet, China)
Genomics Yields Ankylosing Spondylitis Genes Variants Oct 23, 2007
They found that the three autoimmune conditions, but not breast cancer, were significantly associated (P-20) with single-nucleotide polymorphisms in the region of the genome associated with the major histocompatibility complex. "For each of the autoimmune diseases, the maximum signal was centered around the known HLA-associated genes (for example, those encoding HLA-B in ankylosing spondylitis, HLA-DRB1 in MS, and the major histocompatibility class I and class II molecules in autoimmune thyroid... (MedPage Today)
HapMap Project: Human Gene Database Allows Identification Of Disease-associated Genes Oct 21, 2007
30, 2006) An international group of researchers have unveiled a detailed map of human genetic variation within the major histocompatibility complex (MHC), the most important region of the human genome encoding. . (Science Daily)
Tasmanian tumours blamed on inbreeding Oct 7, 2007
The most important immune system gene region, the Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC), has lost its healthy diversity in Tasmanian devils over time - the MHC of the tumour corresponds too well to that of the infected animals for their system to be inclined to combat it. This means that otherwise robustly healthy animals can succumb quickly to DFTD, since their bodies do not recognise it as a threat. (Register)
Genes Determine Mate Choice, At Least For Fat Tailed Dwarf Lemurs Oct 5, 2007
Possible mechanisms of female mate choice were investigated by analyzing overall genetic variability as well as a marker of adaptive significance (major histocompatibility complex, MHC-DRB exon 2). MHC-genes determine not only the individual s immune response but also the individual s body odour. (Science Daily)
Tasmanian Devils face extinction Oct 5, 2007
This was due to a loss of genetic diversity in the most important immune gene region of the genome: the Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC). Matching of MHC genes is the key to successful tissue or organ transplants. (Nature News Service)
Giant panda BAC library construction and assembly of a 650-kb contig spanning major histocompatibility complex class II region Sep 9, 2007
The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) plays important roles in immune response and reproductive system such as mate choice and mother-fetus bio-compatibility. It is thus essential to understand genetic details of the giant panda MHC. Construction of a bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) library will provide a new tool for panda genome physical mapping and thus facilitate understanding of panda MHC genes. (BioMed Central)
HIV Escape Mutations Aug 27, 2007
Viral escape from CTL response due to mutation within the targeted epitope affect either the ability of the epitope to bind for presentation by the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecule on the cell surface, or alter the ability of the T-cell receptor (TCR) to recognize the MHC peptide complex ... A single amino acid mutation in a key CTL recognition site can inhibit normal processing of the viral antigen by T-cells, and presentation of the mutated epitope by the major... (Suite101.com)
Adaptation To Parasites Drive African Fishes Along Different Evolutionary Paths Aug 17, 2007
Some of the genes known to influence mating behavior through olfaction in other vertebrate species are genes of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC). These genes code for receptor that bound molecules produced by infectious agents and present them to specialized cells of the immune system which then launch an immune attack on the microbes. (Science Daily)
Edward Boyse dies Aug 2, 2007
They that the types of odors a mouse has are determined through genetic differences in the major histocompatibility complex, a gene family that is critical for the immune response ... Gary Beauchamp G.K. Beauchamp et al., "Preweaning experience in the control of mating preferences by genes in the major histocompatibility complex of the mouse," Behav Genet, July 1988 ... K. Yamazaki et al., "Discrimination of odortypes determined by the major histocompatibility complex among outbred mice," Proc... (The Scientist)
Huge breakthrough into MS drivers Aug 1, 2007
Until now, investigations of the human genome have turned up only a cluster of variants of genes on Chromosome 6, in the so-called Major Histocompatibility Complex, which regulates the immune system. But these genes were identified in the mid-1970s, leaving frustrated doctors to hunt for other culprits in the complex cascade of processes involved in MS.. (iAfrica.com)
Genetic find raises hope for MS patients Jul 31, 2007
Previously, the only genetic link identified with MS was a large cluster of genes essential to the immune system known as the major histocompatibility complex, or MHC, which is found on chromosome 6. Ms. Royal, a nurse who has worked in the MS field for 25 years, said some people will be discouraged by the fact that the new findings are incremental in nature, and will not result in dramatic changes tomorrow. (Globe and Mail)
Research teams uncover risk genes for multiple sclerosis Jul 31, 2007
Until now, the only genetic link identified with MS was in the major histocompatibility complex (MHC), a large cluster of genes responsible for many immune functions, including preventing the bodys immune cells from attacking its own tissues. This analysis confirmed that link while also finding other variants in genetic regions that are more common in people with MS.. (EurekAlert!)
Research identifies new genes linked with MS Jul 30, 2007
Until now, the only genetic link identified with MS was the major histocompatibility complex, or MHC, a large cluster of genes essential to the immune system. Neither of the newly discovered genes appears to be as instrumental to developing the disease as MHC, but the research is important because it lends insight into other genetic factors that raise a person's risk of multiple sclerosis. (Scientific American)
Scientists pinpoint 2 DNA variants linked to multiple sclerosis Jul 30, 2007
Prior to today's announcements, the only other DNA links to MS were discovered in the 1970s when British scientists spotted a large DNA cluster known as MHC -- the major histocompatibility complex -- which is flawed in patients with the condition. This segment of DNA also is responsible for many immune functions, Hafler said. (Newsday)
New genetic risk factors for multiple sclerosis found Jul 30, 2007
A link had previously been shown between risk of MS and variations in a set of genes called major histocompatibility complex genes, which encode proteins that help 0000092F the immune system distinguish between self and non-self. But that link was found 30 years ago, and no other firm genetic connections had been made since then. (Nature News Service)
Scientists identify 2 genes linked to multiple sclerosis Jul 30, 2007
Until now, the only genetic link identified with MS was the major histocompatibility complex, or MHC, a large cluster of genes essential to the immune system. Neither of the newly discovered genes appears to be as instrumental to developing the disease as MHC, but the research is important because it provides insight into other genetic factors that raise the risk of developing MS.. (Boston Globe -- Nation)
First new multiple sclerosis gene found in 30 years Jul 30, 2007
The previously discovered multiple sclerosis genes were all located in an area of chromosome 6 involved in the major histocompatibility complex, which is important in the regulation of the immune system. The gene variation discovered in the most recent research is located on chromosome 5, and is involved in guiding the production of interleukin-7 receptor alpha (IL-7R), which is a critical receptor for the development and growth of key immune system cells. (EurekAlert!)
Risk genes for multiple sclerosis uncovered Jul 30, 2007
The only genetic link for MS previously identified using other techniques is in the major histocompatibility complex (MHC), a large cluster of genes responsible for many immune functions, including preventing the bodys immune cells from attacking its own tissues. This analysis confirmed that link but went further to find other variants in genetic regions that are more common in people with MS.. (EurekAlert!)
Profiling of chicken adipose tissue gene expression by genome array Jun 27, 2007
The gene expression profiles detected 13,234-16,858 probe sets in chicken adipose tissue at 7 weeks, and genes involved in lipid metabolism and immunity such as fatty acid binding protein (FABP), thyroid hormone-responsive protein (Spot14), lipoprotein lipase(LPL), insulin-like growth factor binding protein 7(IGFBP7) and major histocompatibility complex (MHC), were highly expressed. In contrast, some genes related to lipogenesis, such as leptin receptor, sterol regulatory element binding... (BioMed Central)
Your scent and your sex life Feb 22, 2007
He wondered how bloodhounds distinguish human scents and hypothesized that they might be whiffing the downstream products of a collection of genes known as the Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) that regulate our immune systems. Of these 50-odd MHC genes, three come in a wide array of variants -- enough to endow us with distinct smell fingerprints. (Seacoast New Hampshire)
Genetic Testing Sheds Light On Degenerative Eye Disease Feb 16, 2007
(October 28, 1999) -- Researchers are reporting the genomic sequence of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC), a region on chromosome 6 essential to the immune system. The MHC controls many activities of the immune. (Science Daily)
Couples' compatibility is in the genes Feb 9, 2007
Couples in which the individuals had dissimilar versions of so-called major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genes had the greatest sexual compatibility. . (MSNBC -- Health)
New Study Is First To Link Romantic Relationships To Genes Jan 31, 2007
Vertebrate species and humans are inclined to prefer mates who have dissimilar MHC (major histocompatibility complex) genotypes, rather than similar ones. This preference may help avoid inbreeding between partners, as well as strengthen the immune systems of their offspring through exposure to a wider variety of pathogens. (Science Daily)
Epigenetic Drugs: Promising For Breast Cancer Treatment Dec 27, 2006
Among these reactivated genes are those implicated in the regulation of cell proliferation, cell differentiation, programmed cell death, invasion, metastasis and immune recognition of tumour cells, such as p53, p21, eighteen members of the oxidative phosphorylation pathway, interferon-regulatory factors, NM23, negative regulators of Wnt signalling and Major Histocompatibility Complex Class-I and --II genes. In addition, these drugs down-regulate genes such as ABCB5, a recently identified member... (Science Daily)
Turns out women know love stinks Dec 12, 2006
The genes studied are called major histocompatibility complex, or MHC. They're part of the immune system responsible for recognizing things not part of the self, thus alerting the troops to fend off foreign invaders. MHC genes, it turns out, also are responsible for how a person smells, and how another person will interpret that smell. (Newsday)
DNA to tattle on partners who cheat Dec 5, 2006
The cluster of genes is termed the major histocompatibility complex, or MHC.. The researchers studied 48 male-female couples who were either dating "exclusively" or married or living together. (India Times, India -- Health/Science)
Predicting Class II MHC-Peptide binding: A kernel based approach using similarity scores Nov 15, 2006
Background Modelling the interaction between potentially antigenic peptides and Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) molecules is a key step in identifying potential T-cell epitopes. For Class II MHC alleles, the binding groove is open at both ends, causing ambiguity in the positional alignment between the groove and peptide, as well as creating uncertainty as to what parts of the peptide interact with the MHC. Moreover, the antigenic peptides have variable lengths, making naive modelling... (BioMed Central)
Early-stage immune system control of HIV may depend on inherited factors Nov 4, 2006
HLA also called major histocompatibility complex (MHC) proteins are also the primary markers of tissues as "self." Unique to each individual, these are the factors that need to be matched as closely as possible in organ transplants, with perfect matches only possible between identical twins. Some studies have found that HIV patients with particular versions of HLA may be better able to control viral levels, but the diversity of HLA molecules each person may have up to six different... (EurekAlert!)
Immune Cell Communication Key To Hunting Viruses Oct 27, 2006
These served as a unique scaffold to carry presenting proteins (called Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) proteins) and the attached virus portion, mimicking the clustering of MHC proteins on the surface of target cells. The researchers were able to place many MHC complexes, both with virus and non-virus fragments, and compared what was recognized by specific T-cell receptors on killer T-cells. (Science Daily)
Tumor cells spread canine cancer Aug 11, 2006
They analyzed highly polymorphic regions of the dog major histocompatibility complex (MHC) and found that genetic patterns differed between tumors and host animals but were identical among tumors. Genotyping of microsatellites and mitochondrial DNA also confirmed that the tumors were genetically separate from the canine hosts but closely related to each other. (The Scientist)
Natural Approach To Immune Regulation May Help Transplant Patients Jul 12, 2006
Human leukocyte antigen G, or HLA-G, is a member of a gene family called major histocompatibility complex that provokes an immune response, says Dr. Anatolij Horuzsko, reproductive immunologist at the Medical College of Georgia ... Interestingly, the targets are members of the major histocompatibility complex family to which HLA-G belongs. (Science Daily)
LIAI finding gives boost to bioinformatics use in fighting disease Jun 16, 2006
The researchers focused their testing on the Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC), which binds to certain epitopes and is key to triggering the immune system to attack a virus-infected cell. Epitopes are pieces of a virus that the body's immune system focuses on when it begins an immune response. (EurekAlert!)
Finding the perfect match is all chemistry Jun 1, 2006
Fascinating work on genetics and mate preferences has shown that each of us will be attracted to people who possess a particular set of genes, known as the major histocompatibility complex (MHC), which plays a critical role in the ability to fight pathogens. Mates with dissimilar MHC genes produce healthier offspring with broad immune systems. (TimesOnline)
Leaders & Success May 4, 2006
Buck continued her immunology work, researching major histocompatibility complex (MHC) proteins in immune responses. This sparked her fascination with molecular mechanisms as components of complex biological systems. (Investors Business Daily)
New Method Designed To Analyze One Of The Most Complex Regions Of The Human Genome: The Genes That Regulate The Immune System Apr 24, 2006
Scientists at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center have developed a new method for analyzing the Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) of the human genome ... (October 28, 1999) -- Researchers are reporting the genomic sequence of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC), a region on chromosome 6 essential to the immune system. (Science Daily)
New method to analyse the Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) of the human genome Apr 22, 2006
SEATTLE Scientists at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center have developed a new method for analyzing the Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) of the human genome. This large region, found on chromosome 6, encodes more than 400 known genes. (EurekAlert!)
Analysis of 10,000 ESTs from lymphocytes of the cynomolgus monkey to improve our understanding of its immune system Apr 18, 2006
The protein family and domain analysis revealed that the first, second and fourth of the most abundantly expressed protein families were all assigned to immunoglobulin and major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-related proteins. The expression profiles of these genes were compared with that of homologous genes in human blood, lymph nodes and a RAMOS cell line, which demonstrated expression changes after transformation with EBV. The degree of sequence similarity of the MHC class I and II genes to... (BioMed Central)
U-M scientists identify major psoriasis susceptibility gene Mar 16, 2006
" The PSORS1 gene is actually one of over 20 different varieties (scientists call them alleles) of a gene called HLA-C. "In terms of our grocery store analogy, think of PSORS1 as one of 20 'brands' of HLA-C on the shelf," Elder says. Located on human chromosome 6, HLA-C is one of several genes in the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) that regulate how the immune system fights off infection. MHC genes carry DNA-coded instructions for proteins whose job it is to distinguish between what... (EurekAlert!)
Science of Sex Mar 3, 2006
They discovered that the female students preferred the smell of men that had a major histocompatibility complex, or MHC, that was different from their own. This group of genes plays an important role in the body's defence system, and favouring guys whose immune system is unlike their own makes good evolutionary sense. (FirstScience.com)
Face transplant patient puffing away chances of recovery: doctors Jan 21, 2006
After any transplant operation the immune system tries to destroy the transplanted tissue because the white blood cells fail to recognise them in a process knows as major histocompatibility complex (MHC). It is for this reason that doctors perform an MHC test on potential donors to determine the chances of a good match. (Earthtimes.com)
