MHC class II antigen expression in normal human epidermis

Abstract

Monoclonal antibodies consistently demonstrated the presence of MHC class II antigens (HLA-DR,-DP and -DQ) on keratinocytes in normal human epidermis. Reactivity was normally greatest on the keratinocytes of the intraepidermal portion of sweat ducts or the external root sheath of hair follicles, but staining was noted on the surface of some interappendageal keratinocytes in most subjects. The patterns were varied but distinctive and depended on the antibody used. The functional importance of the MHC class II antigens expressed on normal keratinocytes remains to be investigated.