New methods for detection of HLA genes polymorphism useful for associated diseases studies

We have studied in 22 informative families typed for HLA the segregation of DNA restriction fragments obtained with five restriction enzymes and hybridized with one class I and three class II probes. Most of the fragments correlate with serologically defined specificities. Many fragments can be grouped in clusters, whose genetic significance is discussed. The RFLP distribution in patients with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, multiple sclerosis or narcolepsy, three diseases known to be associated with some HLA-DR specificities, has been also studied. Many fragments allow to distinguish between patients and HLA-DR matched controls. Hybridization of genomic DNA with synthetic oligomers will refine moreover the understanding of the HLA system polymorphism.