The responses to many antigens are governed by the products of dominant immune response (Ir) genes linked to the major histocompatibility complex. This has now been verified in rodents, birds, and primates (Benacerraf and Katz 1975). These genes have been termed histocompatibility- or H-linked Ir genes. The presence of the relevant genes permits immune responses to be formed, which are characterized by cellular immunity and antibody synthesis against the determinants on the antigens concerned. All of these antigens share an important characteristic: they are thymus-dependent antigens. To date, no H-linked Ir gene control of a thymus-independent response has been observed, which may have considerable significance when an analysis is made of the processes controlled by H-linked Ir genes. Considering the complexity of immune phenomena and the enormous range of specificities against which antibodies can be formed, such simple genetic control of specific immune responses was unexpected...
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Benacerraf et al. (1977) studied this question.