REGULATED EXPRESSION OF THE MAJOR HISTOCOMPATIBILITY COMPLEX CLASS-I GENES

The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I gene products are k nown to play a fundamental role in foreign antigen presentation to the cellular immune system. Much attention has been directed to the study of MHC class I gene expression as a means to understanding the proces ses by which MHC class I-mediated immune responses are regulated. Two areas of considerable interest have emerged, including regulation at t he levels of transcriptional control and antigenic peptide-induced tra nsport of MHC class I molecules. With an emphasis on these major areas of research, we review recent developments on the molecular and bioch emical mediators and events of MHC class I gene regulation.