Chapter 30, Problem 4P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The difference in the mode of interaction between the T-cell receptors and MHC molecules with antigens should be explained.

Concept Introduction:

The T-cell receptors are present on the surface of the T-cells also known as T-lymphocytes. They recognize the antigen's fragments because peptides are bonded to MHC molecules. The affinity of binding of T-cells and antigens is comparatively low this results in its degeneration. In such cases, the same antigen is recognized by so many T-cells or so many antigens are recognized by the same T-cell.

There are two different protein chains in the composition of T-cell. In human body, approximately 95% of the T-cells consists of alpha and beta chains, whereas only 5% T-cells consist of gamma and delta chains.