Symbolic reinterpretation of HLA gene products--impact on interpretation of HLA data at the molecular level

In the HLA system genes are defined by antibody/antigen reactions and are denoted by single symbolic identifiers. This symbolization assumes a one-to-one correspondence between antibodies, antigens and genes. It is important, however, to label each reagent with symbols corresponding to all genes coding for antigens with which the reagent will react. The problems of cross-reactive groups and unexplained linkage relations may be elucidated by the redefinition and clarification of certain HLA antigens. A computer program can suggest such labelling schemes using input given by phenotype reaction patterns with a panel of reagents. When this program was applied to data on the class I HLA antigens a genetic model was suggested that differs somewhat from the currently accepted view. The new model is consistent with applicable and available family data on recombinants and has implications for the interpretation of data at the DNA level.