[Physiology and pathology of the HLA complex (author's transl)]

The functions of the genes included in the HLA complex have been studied mainly through the allogenic response, in vitro and in vivo. The sequence of this response was established thanks to primary and secondary MLC and CML. It appears that at least two clones of T lymphocytes are involved, the first in the non-self recognition through HLA-D differences, and the second in immunization against the HLA-A and B incompatibilities. Many associations between HLA and diseases have been found. They can be classified in three categories according to their associations with HLA-B, D, or with another gene of the complex. They are true experiments of nature which will give clues to the physiological functions of the HLA complex genes.