MHC class II molecules are expressed on which cells?

Study for the NBME Immunology Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question includes hints and explanations. Prepare to excel!

Multiple Choice

MHC class II molecules are expressed on which cells?

Explanation:
MHC class II molecules are used by cells that specialize in presenting extracellular antigens to CD4+ T helper cells. They are expressed on professional antigen-presenting cells, including dendritic cells, macrophages, and B cells. These cells take up external proteins, process them in endosomes, and display peptide fragments on MHC II to activate helper T cells, coordinating the immune response. Neurons generally do not express MHC II, and mature erythrocytes lack antigen-processing machinery, so they do not present antigens via MHC II. Therefore, the correct category is professional antigen-presenting cells.

MHC class II molecules are used by cells that specialize in presenting extracellular antigens to CD4+ T helper cells. They are expressed on professional antigen-presenting cells, including dendritic cells, macrophages, and B cells. These cells take up external proteins, process them in endosomes, and display peptide fragments on MHC II to activate helper T cells, coordinating the immune response. Neurons generally do not express MHC II, and mature erythrocytes lack antigen-processing machinery, so they do not present antigens via MHC II. Therefore, the correct category is professional antigen-presenting cells.

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