The human leukocyte antigen system or HLA system (human leucocyte antigens) is one of the most important genetic markers in medicine and biology. It consists of proteins that are found on the surface of human blood cells, skin, tissues and organs and determine the immune response to various antigens.
The HLA system was discovered in 1953 by a group of scientists led by Karl Landsteiner. It got its name from the first letters of the researchers' surnames - HLA (Human Leukocyte Antigens). Currently, the human antigenic leukocyte system is one of the most studied and important systems in human genetics.
The human leukocyte antigen system consists of more than 600 different genes that encode proteins on the surface of leukocytes. These proteins are important to the human immune system as they help recognize and destroy pathogenic microorganisms.
The importance of the HLA system is that it can be used to determine genetic predispositions to various diseases and conditions. For example, certain types of HLA proteins may be associated with the risk of developing certain diseases, such as cancer or autoimmune diseases.
In addition, the HLA system can be used to determine the compatibility of donor organs for transplantation. If the donor and recipient match certain types of proteins on the surface of the cells, then the likelihood of a successful transplant increases.
In general, the human leukocyte antigen system plays an important role in human immunology and genetics and can be used to diagnose and treat various diseases.
What is HLA?
HLA, Human Lymphocyte Antigen or human leukocyte antigen system is a large group of genes that encode antigen molecules on the surface of our lymphocytes. Knowing this system helps to understand the immune system and how it works. We can say that HLA is one of the key