HLA class I heavy chains and HLA-DR (HLA-I/DR)

HLA class I heavy chains and HLA-DR represent a combined therapeutic target involving both Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) class I and class II molecules. HLA class I molecules, consisting of a polymorphic heavy chain and beta-2 microglobulin, are expressed on almost all nucleated cells and present endogenous antigens to CD8+ cytotoxic T cells. HLA-DR is a class II molecule primarily found on professional antigen-presenting cells that presents exogenous antigens to CD4+ helper T cells. In oncology, these molecules are targeted to induce direct tumor cell death or to modulate the immune microenvironment, as many hematologic malignancies overexpress these antigens. Drugs targeting these molecules, such as certain monoclonal antibodies, aim to trigger apoptosis or antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) in malignant cells while sparing normal tissues with lower expression levels.

Other names

MHC class I and IIHuman Leukocyte Antigen class I and IIHLA-A/B/C and HLA-DRMHC-I heavy chain and MHC-II DR