Class II MHC antigen expression in the atherosclerotic plaque: smooth muscle cells express HLA-DR, HLA-DQ and the invariant gamma chain.

摘要: Class II antigens of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) are normally expressed only by cells immune system. They may, however, also appear on other cells, both in vivo and vitro. We have studied class MHC antigen expression human arterial smooth muscle using immunocytochemical analysis surgical biopsies. The antigens, HLA-DQ HLA-DR virtually absent from normal arteries, but atherosclerotically transformed tissue, where majority express HLA-DR, one-third HLA-DQ. These atherosclerotic plaques composed a heterogeneous population which includes macrophages, T cells. Among containing muscle-specific intermediate filament protein desmin, almost as many contain invariant gamma chain, is associated with during intracellular transport. Plaque contrast, usually DQ-DR+ phenotype. patterns discussed relation to cell differentiation pathogenesis disease.