Sequence, linkage to H2-K, and function of mouse tapasin in MHC class I assembly

Immunogenetics. 1998 Sep;48(4):260-5. doi: 10.1007/s002510050430.

Abstract

Assembly of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules in human cells is dependent on the accessory protein tapasin, which mediates their interaction with the transporters associated with antigen processing (TAP) and thereby ensures efficient peptide binding. Analysis of a mouse tapasin complementary DNA defined a conserved polypeptide sharing sequences diagnostic of a transmembrane protein related to the immunoglobulin superfamily, and an endoplasmic reticulum retention motif. The mouse tapasin gene was mapped about 70 kilobases from H2-K at the centromeric end of the mouse MHC. Expression of mouse tapasin in a tapasin-deficient human mutant cell line restored the normal assembly and expression of class I alleles. Thus, tapasin is a structurally and functionally conserved component of the MHC class I antigen processing pathway. Its genetic linkage to the class I and TAP subunit genes in the MHC may be of significance in the coordinate expression and functional coadaptation of the diverse gene products.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Amino Acid Sequence
  • Animals
  • Antiporters / genetics*
  • Antiporters / immunology
  • Antiporters / physiology
  • Cell Line
  • Chromosome Mapping
  • Genetic Linkage*
  • H-2 Antigens / genetics*
  • Histocompatibility Antigens Class I / biosynthesis*
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulins / genetics*
  • Immunoglobulins / immunology
  • Immunoglobulins / physiology
  • Membrane Transport Proteins
  • Mice
  • Molecular Sequence Data
  • Sequence Homology, Amino Acid

Substances

  • Antiporters
  • H-2 Antigens
  • H-2K(K) antigen
  • Histocompatibility Antigens Class I
  • Immunoglobulins
  • Membrane Transport Proteins
  • tapasin

Associated data

  • GENBANK/AF043943