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Association between Alzheimer's disease and MHC-I antigen processing and presentation pathway: a narrative review
Caixian Wang1, Qilin Yun1, Zuoming Zhang1
1Institute of Blood Transfusion, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Chengdu, China.
Frontiers in Immunology
|July 25, 2026
Summary
The major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC-I) pathway, also known as the human leukocyte antigen class I (HLA-I) pathway, is increasingly linked to Alzheimer's disease (AD) progression. Further research is needed to understand its role in neuroinflammation and potential as a therapeutic target.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimmunology
- Genetics of neurodegenerative diseases
- Molecular and cellular biology of Alzheimer's disease
Background:
- Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a leading cause of dementia, characterized by amyloid-beta and tau pathology.
- Growing evidence suggests immune dysregulation and neuroinflammation are critical in AD pathogenesis.
- The role of the major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC-I) pathway in the central nervous system (CNS) and AD is under investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current evidence connecting the MHC-I (human leukocyte antigen class I or HLA-I) pathway to Alzheimer's disease.
- To explore genetic, molecular, cellular, and immunological aspects of this association.
- To highlight the potential significance of the MHC-I/HLA-I pathway in AD pathophysiology and progression.
Main Methods:
- Narrative review of existing literature.
- Analysis of genetic associations with the HLA region in AD susceptibility.
- Examination of molecular and cellular changes in CNS cells related to MHC-I/HLA-I components.
Main Results:
- The broader HLA region is implicated in AD susceptibility.
- Alterations in HLA-I-related loci, antigen processing machinery, and associated molecules are observed in AD.
- Changes in MHC-I expression and components like β2-microglobulin, along with potential adaptive immune cell involvement (e.g., CD8+ T cells), are reported in various CNS cells.
Conclusions:
- The MHC-I/HLA-I pathway is a significant component of AD pathophysiology, influencing immune homeostasis and cellular interactions in the CNS.
- This pathway may contribute to AD disease heterogeneity and progression.
- Further research using advanced techniques is crucial to elucidate its mechanistic, biomarker, and therapeutic potential in AD.
Keywords:
Alzheimer’s diseaseantigen presentationhuman leukocyte antigen class Imajor histocompatibility complex class I, (MHC-I)microgliaMore Related Videos
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