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Basis of rejection

The function of the HLA/MHC system is not to make transplantation difficult. It is to protect the body against attack by foreign viri, bacteria etc.

In essence rejection is due to the recipients T-cell receptor mistaking foreign MHC in the graft for self MHC bound to foreign antigen. This triggers the immune system to start attacking the donors cells that are expressing MHC.



Subsections

Adrian P. Ireland 2004-02-17