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Recent studies link human leukocyte antigen (HLA) variations to various diseases, especially with class II antigens. While progress is made in understanding genetic links to conditions like diabetes, others like multiple sclerosis remain complex, highlighting the need for future research.
Area of Science:
- Immunogenetics
- Molecular Biology
- Human Genetics
Background:
- Extensive research since 1979 has focused on the association between human leukocyte antigen (HLA) and disease.
- A significant portion of this research investigates the link between specific diseases and class II major histocompatibility complex (MHC) antigens.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in HLA and disease association studies.
- To explore the biological significance and potential etiology of these associations.
- To discuss new findings regarding HLA genetics and MHC function in humans.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies published since 1979.
- Analysis of immunochemical procedures and technological advancements.
- Discussion of genetic studies, including those for insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus and multiple sclerosis.
Main Results:
- Majority of studies focus on class II MHC antigens and their association with diseases.
- Significant progress in understanding the genetics of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus.
- New loci in the HLA-D/DR region have been identified using advanced immunochemical techniques.
Conclusions:
- HLA and disease associations are crucial for understanding disease etiology.
- While some genetic links are being resolved (e.g., diabetes), others (e.g., multiple sclerosis) remain challenging.
- Future DNA sequencing studies and advanced technologies will further elucidate MHC function and its relationship to human diseases.
Abstract:
This review describes the greater portion of a large number of new studies on HLA and disease association which has appeared in the literature since 1979. The majority of these are concerned with the association of certain diseases with class II major histocompatibility complex antigens. The possible biologic significance of these associations in terms of their probable etiology appears to be the prevailing theme. Current thinking regarding certain heritable diseases is described. It seems that although much has been done to resolve the genetics of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, other diseases such a multiple sclerosis still remain a mystery. Doubtlessly, much will be gained from DNA cloning and sequencing studies proposed for the future. A great deal of new information has been obtained relative to HLA itself. New loci have been postulated in the HLA-D/DR region through the use of powerful immunochemical procedures made possibly by the advent of modern technological advances. The impact of these developments on our understanding of the function of the MHC in man and its possible relationship to disease are discussed.