Question

The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) of genes consists of a linked set of genetic loci encoding many of the proteins involved in antigen presentation to T cells, most notably the MHC glycoproteins that present peptides to the T cell receptor. The outstanding feature of MHC genes is their extensive polymorphism. Most MHC alleles differ from one another by multiple amino acid substitutions, and these differences are focused on the peptide-binding site and adjacent regions that make direct contact with the T cell receptor. New MHC alleles can be created when one sequence is replaced, in part, by another from a homologous gene. What is this called?

Gene duplication
Recombination
Gene conversion
Antigenic shift
Antigenic drift

Answer 1

The creation of new MHC alleles through the partial replacement of one sequence by another from a homologous gene is known as gene conversion.

Step-by-step explanation:

The process by which new major histocompatibility complex (MHC) alleles are created when one sequence is replaced, in part, by another from a homologous gene is known as gene conversion.

This process is responsible for the diversity seen in MHC genes, contributing to the extensive polymorphism that is critical for the immune system's ability to recognize and respond to a vast array of pathogens. The MHC molecules play a vital role in presenting antigens to T cells, aiding in the immune response and in recognizing self from non-self, thus preventing the immune system from attacking the body's own cells.