Recombinant Canine HLA Class II Histocompatibility Antigen, DR Alpha Chain (HLA-DRA)

Canine HLA-DRA, also known as Dog Leukocyte Antigen (DLA)-DRA1, is a component of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II system in dogs. This gene encodes a protein that forms a heterodimer with other MHC class II proteins, such as DLA-DRB1, -DQA1, and -DQB1, to present antigenic peptides to T cell receptors. The heterodimers bind to antigenic peptides in a peptide-binding groove and are crucial for the regulation of the adaptive immune response. DLA-DRA1 appears to be monomorphic, meaning it has little genetic variation, while the other class II genes are highly polymorphic, leading to diverse antigen-binding capabilities. This diversity is important for the immune system's ability to recognize a wide range of foreign antigens. The MHC class II genes, including DLA-DRA1, play a critical role in immune tolerance, the distinction between self and non-self antigens, and the degree of immune response to specific antigens. They are also associated with the development of autoimmune conditions and other immune-mediated diseases in dogs.