Qa-1b is a MHC class I molecule and is the functional homolog of HLA-E in humans. Qa-1b is characterised by its limited polymorphisms and small peptide repertoire. Qa-1b binds to peptides derived from signal peptides of MHC class Ia molecule and interact with the CD94/NKG2 receptors on natural killer cells. The Qa-1b-peptide complex signals natural killer cells not to engage in cell lysis. Despite of its homology with HLA-E, it seems that the Qa-1b has coincidentally evolved to have a similar function to HLA-E.
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Major histocompatibility complex/
Human leukocyte antigen |
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HLA-DM ( α, β) • HLA-DO ( α, β) • HLA-DP ( α1, β1) • HLA-DQ ( α1, α2, β1, β2, β3) • HLA-DR ( α, β1, β3, β4, β5)
Minor histocompatibility antigen
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| Other |
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