Final answer:
MHC I and MHC II molecules are encoded by stable genes and have two components of inherited diversity. MHC I molecules are found on all nucleated cells and present antigens to T cells involved in cellular immunity. MHC II molecules are only found on specific cells and present antigens for initial T cell activation.
Step-by-step explanation:
MHC I and MHC II molecules are encoded by stable genes that do not undergo rearrangement or somatic structural changes. The inherited diversity of MHC molecules has two components.
MHC I molecules are found on the surface of all nucleated cells and present normal self-antigens as well as abnormal or nonself pathogens to effector T cells involved in cellular immunity. They are composed of a longer α protein chain and a smaller ß₂ microglobulin protein.
MHC II molecules, on the other hand, are only found on macrophages, dendritic cells, and B cells. They present abnormal or nonself pathogen antigens for the initial activation of T cells and are composed of two protein chains, an α and a ß chain.