Definitions

Chapter 7

Anchor residues-- amino acid residues situated strategically within a peptide sequence that partner with complementary amino acids in a MHC molecule's 'groove.' (G-2).

Anchor residues are so called because they are what fastens the peptide into the MHC molecule's groove. (p.255)

MHC Locus - gene conglomerate that enables 'antigen presentation to T cells" and 'rapid graft rejection' (G-13).

Both mice and humans have the MHC locus but they are known by different names; H-2 complex and HLA complex, respectively. (G-13)

Histocompatibility antigens - protein family that decides if donor 'tissue or cell grafts' can be accepted by the body (G-9)

Histocompatibility antigens are also known as MHC antigens and MHC molecules. (p.258)