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[Structure and function of the immunoglobulin Vh gene in man]
A Lukowsky1, S Jahn, R von Baehr
1Institut für Medizinische Immunologie, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin.
Allergie Und Immunologie
|January 1, 1990
Summary
Human Vh-genes, located on chromosome 14, are classified into 6 families based on sequence similarities. Antibody specificities do not appear linked to specific Vh genes, suggesting random selection for immunoglobulin production.
Area of Science:
- Immunogenetics
- Molecular Biology
- Human Genetics
Context:
- The human immunoglobulin heavy chain variable region (Vh) genes are crucial for adaptive immunity.
- Understanding their structure and function is key to deciphering immune responses.
- Over 100 Vh gene segments are organized on chromosome 14.
Purpose:
- To survey and classify the structure and functions of human Vh-genes.
- To analyze the organization and evolutionary history of Vh gene families.
- To investigate the relationship between Vh gene usage and antibody specificities.
Summary:
- Human Vh-genes on chromosome 14 cluster into 6 families based on sequence homology.
- These gene segments vary in size, include pseudogenes, and show homology with mouse genes, indicating a shared evolutionary origin.
- Current evidence suggests no direct association between specific Vh genes or families and antibody specificities.
- The preferential usage of Vh genes in fetal stages or autoantibody production requires further validation.
- Vh gene selection for immunoglobulin production in adult mammals appears to be random.
Impact:
- Provides a foundational classification of human Vh-gene families.
- Highlights the evolutionary trajectory of Vh genes.
- Challenges existing hypotheses on Vh gene usage and antibody specificity.
- Informs future research on immune system development and autoimmune diseases.