Endosomal localization of MHC class II-invariant chain complexes

CD4-positive T cells recognize foreign antigens displayed on the surface of antigen-presenting cells as small peptides bound to MHC class II molecules. Thus, the ability of antigen-presenting cells to generate these class II-peptide complexes is central to the initiation and regulation of immune responses. Class II predominantly associates with peptides derived from soluble protein antigens that are internalized and degraded within endosomal compartments. It is within these endosomal compartments that class II encounters and binds antigenic peptides. A number of signals have been implicated in directing the intracellular transport of class II to endosomes. These include sequences within class II itself and within the class II-associated invariant chain (Ii).