HLA-DRB and -DBQ typing by PCR amplification using sequence-specific primers (PCR-SSP): assessment after 1 year of...

Using sequence-specific amplifications, a practical and fast technique for DRB and DQB typing has been developed. The primers are chosen in order to amplify groups of alleles corresponding to the same serological specificity. In a second step, precise allelic determination is obtained by studying the restriction fragment length polymorphism of the PCR products. The experience of three laboratories using this technique in the context of organ or bone marrow transplantation is reported.