Genetics of immune response: a survey

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Genetics

Background:

• The mouse is a critical model organism for studying immune response (Ir) genes.
• Major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-linked Ir genes are central to determining immune reactivity.
• A limited number of Ir genes influence responses to a wide array of antigens.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the diversity of antigens and the nature of antigenic determinants influencing immune responses.
• To discuss the role of different antigen types in understanding Ir gene function.

Main Methods:

• Summarization of data from over 100 independent antigen systems.
• Inclusion of infectious agents (bacteria, viruses, parasites) and histoincompatible cells.
• Presentation of findings from antigenically defined proteins.

Main Results:

• MHC-linked Ir genes are crucial for immune response determination.
• Immune reactivity is controlled by a small set of Ir genes against diverse antigens.
• Different antigen types contribute to understanding Ir gene function.

Conclusions:

• The study highlights the significant role of MHC-linked Ir genes in modulating immune responses.
• Understanding Ir gene function is advanced by studying diverse antigen systems.
• While synthetic polypeptides are important, this review focuses on other antigen types.