HLA Type and the Effect of HLA Antibodies in Kidney, Liver, and Pancreas  Transplantation: A Review

Edalat  Zarei; Jamshid  Roozbeh; Hamed Nikoupour  Deylami; Saman  Nikeghbalian; Mahbube   Ahrami; Farukhruzi  Nasrollozoda; Ahmad  Hashemzehi; Masoud  Hashemzaei

doi:10.18502/ajmb.v18i1.21042

Edalat Zarei Shiraz Transplant Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
Jamshid Roozbeh Shiraz Nephro-Urology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
Hamed Nikoupour Deylami Shiraz Transplant Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
Saman Nikeghbalian Shiraz Transplant Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
Mahbube Ahrami Shiraz Transplant Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
Farukhruzi Nasrollozoda National Scientific Center for Human Organs and Tissues Transplantation, State Medical University, Dushanbe,Republic of Tajikistan, Tajikistan
Ahmad Hashemzehi Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
Masoud Hashemzaei Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/ajmb.v18i1.21042

Keywords: Antigens, Kidney, Liver, Pancreas, Solid organ transplantation

Abstract

Solid Organ Transplantation (SOT) has evolved from being an experimental procedure to a well-established therapeutic option for patients with end-stage organ failure. Among the most prevalent types of transplantation are liver, kidney, and pancreas transplants. Progress in surgical techniques and organ procurement has led to a decrease in complications, such as ischemic injury. Nevertheless, immune-mediated graft rejection continues to pose a significant challenge. The purpose of this review is to underscore the significance of Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) in the outcomes of SOT, particularly its critical role in donor–recipient matching, the risk of rejection, and the long-term survival of grafts. A comprehensive review of the relevant literature concerning the relationship between HLA and SOT was conducted, focusing on the function of Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) molecules, HLA typing, and the effects of HLA diversity on organ matching and clinical results. HLA typing serves as a fundamental element in assessing donor–recipient compatibility and minimizing the chances of graft rejection. The extensive polymorphism of HLA alleles, along with the existence of donor-specific antibodies, complicates the matching process, influences waiting periods, and impacts graft prognosis. Modulating HLA-mediated immune responses has the potential to enhance graft stability in liver, kidney, and pancreas transplantation. HLA molecules are crucial to the success of SOT. Ongoing clinical trials investigating novel immunosuppressive agents and HLA-targeted strategies may improve rejection management and long-term transplant outcomes. This review highlights the critical importance of HLA in liver, kidney, and pancreas transplantation.