2025 Volume 32 Issue 2 Pages 59-67
The discovery of human leukocyte antigens (HLA) was preceded by the identification of the mouse major histocompatibility complex (MHC) antigen, H-2. The foundation of HLA research was shaped by several key milestones: the discovery of the Mac antigen by Dausset et al., Payne et al.’s collection of HLA antiserum from pregnant women, and the establishment of the HLA antigen system through the International Histocompatibility Workshop.
In 1965, the HL-A system was introduced to standardize nomenclature. Subsequent research revealed multiple genetic loci, leading to its classification into HLA-A and HLA-B loci. Later, the HLA-C and HLA-D regions (including the DR, DQ, and DP loci) were identified.
The lymphocytotoxicity test (LCT) method, developed by P. I. Terasaki et al., revolutionized HLA antigen testing by enabling analysis with minute amounts of antiserum. This advancement facilitated the classification of HLA antigens using common antisera and significantly contributed to the progress of HLA antigen research. HLA antisera often react with multiple HLA antigens and are known to possess common epitopes, based on similarities in cross-reactive groups (Cross Reactive Group：CREG ) and their reactivity with these antigens.
