Basic knowledge3 of HLA

Abstract

There are two laboratory testing methods for HLA. One is so-called HLA typing that had been previously done by serological detection of HLA antigens expressed on the cell surface of lymphocytes by using anti-sera produced against non-self HLA antigen, and has now been done as so-called HLA-DNA typing. The other HLA testing method is to detect the anti-HLA-antisera generated against non-self HLA antigens found in sensitized subjects. There are several different laboratory procedures for HLA-DNA typing and detection of anti-HLA-antisera, for which commercially available kits have been developed. In this review, principle and management of procedures for HLA testing including requirement of check-points at the timing of lot change for commercial kits.