Detection of RBC-bound antibodies using flow cytometry and their correlation with HLA polymorphism

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Genetics
• Gerontology

Background:

• Immune responses in the elderly are affected by genetic factors, including human leukocyte antigen (HLA) polymorphisms.
• Immunosenescence, or age-related immune decline, can lead to red blood cell (RBC)-bound antibodies, impacting transfusion safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between specific human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-DQB1 alleles and the presence of RBC-bound antibodies in healthy elderly individuals.
• To explore the role of genetic variations in immune changes related to aging.

Main Methods:

• Collected blood samples from 83 healthy elderly individuals (aged 60-70).
• Analyzed serum and RBCs using flow cytometry to detect RBC-bound antibodies.
• Employed sequence-based typing (SBT) for human leukocyte antigen (HLA) DQB1 allele identification.

Main Results:

• RBC-bound antibodies were detected in 42 out of 83 participants.
• A significant association was found between the HLA-DQB1*04 allele and the presence of RBC-bound antibodies (p < 0.034).
• No significant associations were observed for HLA-DQB1 alleles *02, *03, *05, and *06.

Conclusions:

• The HLA-DQB1*04 allele plays a role in the development of RBC-bound antibodies in the elderly.
• Findings underscore the complexity of immunosenescence and immune variability in aging populations.
• Highlights potential implications for transfusion medicine in elderly individuals.