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HLA-G levels in serum and plasma
N Rudstein-Svetlicky1, R Loewenthal, V Horejsi
1Tissue Typing Laboratory, Sheba Medical Center, and Tel Aviv University, Ramat Gan, Tel Aviv, Israel.
Tissue Antigens
|January 31, 2006
Summary
Soluble human leukocyte antigen G (sHLA-G) levels are higher in plasma than in serum because it is trapped during blood clotting. Plasma measurements are recommended for accurate sHLA-G quantification.
Area of Science:
- Immunogenetics
- Molecular biology
- Clinical chemistry
Background:
- Human Leukocyte Antigen G (HLA-G) is a non-classical HLA class Ib gene.
- Soluble HLA-G (sHLA-G) forms exist and are found in various bodily fluids.
- Previous studies indicated genetic control over HLA-G levels.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate discrepancies in soluble HLA-G (sHLA-G) quantification between plasma and serum.
- To determine the optimal biological fluid for accurate sHLA-G level assessment.
Main Methods:
- Quantification of sHLA-G using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA).
- Comparative analysis of sHLA-G levels in matched plasma and serum samples from the same individuals.
Main Results:
- sHLA-G plasma levels were consistently higher than serum levels in the same individuals.
- The difference between plasma and serum values was attributed to sHLA-G trapping or consumption during clot formation.
- The amount of sHLA-G trapped in clots was variable and inconsistent.
Conclusions:
- Plasma is the recommended biological fluid for accurate determination of sHLA-G levels.
- Serum measurements may underestimate true biological sHLA-G concentrations due to pre-analytical factors.
- Comparisons using serum data should account for potential underestimation and utilize matched controls.
