<P> The major histocompatibility complex ( MHC ) is a set of cell surface proteins essential for the acquired immune system to recognize foreign molecules in vertebrates , which in turn determines histocompatibility . The main function of MHC molecules is to bind to antigens derived from pathogens and display them on the cell surface for recognition by the appropriate T - cells . MHC molecules mediate interactions of leukocytes , also called white blood cells ( WBCs ) , which are immune cells , with other leukocytes or with body cells . The MHC determines compatibility of donors for organ transplant , as well as one 's susceptibility to an autoimmune disease via crossreacting immunization . The human MHC is also called the HLA ( human leukocyte antigen ) complex ( often just the HLA ) . The mouse MHC is called the H - 2 complex or H - 2 . </P>
<P> The major histocompatibility complex ( MHC ) is a set of cell surface proteins essential for the acquired immune system to recognize foreign molecules in vertebrates , which in turn determines histocompatibility . The main function of MHC molecules is to bind to antigens derived from pathogens and display them on the cell surface for recognition by the appropriate T - cells . MHC molecules mediate interactions of leukocytes , also called white blood cells ( WBCs ) , which are immune cells , with other leukocytes or with body cells . The MHC determines compatibility of donors for organ transplant , as well as one 's susceptibility to an autoimmune disease via crossreacting immunization . The human MHC is also called the HLA ( human leukocyte antigen ) complex ( often just the HLA ) . The mouse MHC is called the H - 2 complex or H - 2 . </P>
what is the function of the major histocompatibility complex
what is the function of the major histocompatibility complex
recognize foreign molecules in vertebrates
recognize foreign molecules in vertebrates