The HLA-DRA*0102 allele: correct nucleotide sequence and associated HLA haplotypes

Area of Science:

• Immunogenetics
• Molecular Biology
• Human Genetics

Background:

• The Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) complex plays a critical role in immune response.
• Accurate genetic sequencing of HLA alleles is essential for understanding immune system diversity and disease associations.
• Previous reports suggested discrepancies in the nucleotide sequences of HLA-DRA*0101 and HLA-DRA*0102 alleles.

Purpose of the Study:

• To correct and clarify the nucleotide sequence differences between HLA-DRA*0101 and HLA-DRA*0102 alleles.
• To accurately identify the specific codon responsible for the variation between these two important HLA-DRA alleles.
• To associate specific HLA-DRA alleles with known major histocompatibility complex haplotypes.

Main Methods:

• Nucleotide sequencing of the HLA-DRA gene.
• Analysis of DNA samples from individuals homozygous for the major histocompatibility complex.
• Comparative analysis of HLA-DRA*0101 and HLA-DRA*0102 allele sequences.

Main Results:

• The coding regions of HLA-DRA*0101 and HLA-DRA*0102 alleles differ only at codon 217.
• The HLA-DRA*0102 allele (leucine 217) is found on specific major histocompatibility complex haplotypes, including AH8.1 and AH7.1.
• The HLA-DRA*0101 allele (valine 217) is associated with other distinct major histocompatibility complex haplotypes.

Conclusions:

• The previously reported two-codon difference between HLA-DRA*0101 and HLA-DRA*0102 is incorrect; the variation is confined to codon 217.
• This precise sequence information refines the characterization of these HLA-DRA alleles and their associated haplotypes.
• Accurate HLA-DRA allele sequencing is crucial for immunogenetic research and clinical applications.