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HLA nomenclature and the IMGT/HLA sequence database.
1Anthony Nolan Research Institute, Department of Haematology, Royal Free & University College Medical School, Hampstead, London NW3 2QG, UK.
Novartis Foundation Symposium
|January 10, 2004
Summary
The Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) system required a standardized nomenclature due to gene polymorphism. The IMGT/HLA database now serves as the official repository for HLA sequences, crucial for research and clinical applications.
Area of Science:
- Immunogenetics
- Molecular Biology
- Bioinformatics
Background:
- The Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) system is highly polymorphic.
- A systematic nomenclature was needed early in HLA research.
- The WHO Nomenclature Committee for Factors of the HLA System was established in 1968.
Observation:
- The committee has published 16 reports on HLA antigens, genes, and alleles.
- International Histocompatibility Workshops standardized HLA antigenic specificities.
- HLA allele sequences began to be analyzed and named in 1989.
Findings:
- The IMGT/HLA database was established in 1998 as the official repository for HLA sequences.
- The database curates nucleotide and protein sequences, along with cell information.
- It offers tools for sequence analysis and data submission, containing over 1500 HLA allele sequences.
Implications:
- Standardized nomenclature and accessible sequence data are vital for HLA research.
- The IMGT/HLA database facilitates advancements in transplantation and disease association studies.
- Ongoing updates ensure the database remains a comprehensive resource for the scientific community.