La chaîne invariante : son rôle et sa fonction dans la réponse immunitaire spécifique

Abstract

Invariant chain is a monomorphic protein, closely associated to the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II molecules, that exists in multiple forms encoded by a single gene. Ten years after its discovery, the role of the invariant chain in immune response has been established. In vitro experiments have shown its role in the assembly of the MHC class II alpha and beta chains and in their transport from the endoplasmic reticulum to the endosomes. In addition, the involvement of the invariant chain in antigen presentation by MHC class II has been demonstrated for the majority of antigens. Recently, the creation of invariant chain deficient mice confirmed in vitro studies and now allows for further investigation of its in vivo function.