1. Similarities between MHC class I and
MHC class II
Both are synthesized in rough endoplasmic
reticulum
Both are found on the surface of APC surface
Both are encoded by genes in HLA locus
In both class I and class II, expression of genes is
co-dominant

2. Difference between MHC class I and
MHC class II
MHC class I MHC class II
1. Have 8-10 amino acids Have 13-18 amino acids
2. Peptide binding domain
alpha1, alpha2
Peptide binding domain alpha1,
beta1
3. Present antigen to CD 8 T- cells Present antigen to CD 4 T- cells
4. Found on all surfaces of
nucleated cells
Found on surface of APCs and
activated T cells
5. Composed of one peptide
encoded in HLA locus and beta 2
microglobullin
Composed of two peptide
encoded by HLA locus
6. Bind with endogenous antigen Bind with exogenous antigen
7. Has no invariant chain Has invariant chain

3. Cont…
MHC class I MHC class II
8. After binding to CD 8 T
cells, cytokines are
produced that lead to the
lysis of entire cell
After binding to CD4 T cells
it triggers B cell response
which result in antibody
formation

4. Special thanks
• Prof. Mramba Nyindo-tutor at kcmu college
• All BSc. Health laboratory science year two
students(2016/17) at kcmu college.
PREPARED BY PETER R. MASSAWE BSc HEALTH
LABORATORY STUDENT at kcmu college year two
2016/17
massawepeter124@gmail.com