Immunogenetic aspects of allotransplantation

It now appears unequivocal that three markers exist in a linkage group in chromosome 6 of man: HLA-A, HLA-B and PGM3 (Fig. 1.) Tentatively, two other HLA loci and one Ir gene have been mapped close to HLA-B. The probable map order is HLA-A - HLA-C - HLA-B - HLA-D - Ir. The biological functions of these loci are unknown. However, HLA-A, B and C are important in allograft rejection. Other closely linked loci (HDR, CML) appear to be important in the first events of the allograft rejection (first set) and in generation of killer cells. HLA-D might be important in cellular recognition and graft-versus-host reactions (matching at HLA-D decreases the incidence and severity of graft-versus-host disease), and the Ir genes in the defense against infections. HLA-B and HLA-D loci are important markers in studies of disease susceptibility. HLA-B locus antigens HLA-B27 and HLA-B8 are frequently associated with arthritic or autoimmune disorders. HLA-D determinants have been found in association with multiple sclerosis and C2 deficiency (HLA-DW2); juvenile diabetes and Addison's disease (HLA-DW3) and adult type of rheumatoid arthritis (HLA-DW4).