human leukocyte antigen

human leukocyte antigen (HLA)

any one of four significant histocompatibility antigens governed by genes of the HLA complex, specific loci on chromosome 6, designated HLA-A, HLA-B, HLA-C, and HLA-D. Each locus has several genetically determined alleles; each of these is associated with certain diseases or conditions; for example, HLA-B27 is usually present in people who have ankylosing spondylitis. The HLA system is used to assess tissue compatibility. White blood cells are used for testing. Perfect tissue compatibility exists only between identical twins. See also histocompatibility gene.

human leukocyte antigen (HLA)

The human MAJOR HISTOCOMPATIBILITY COMPLEX.

hu·man leu·ko·cyte an·ti·gen

(HLA) (hyū'măn lū'kō-sīt an'ti-jen)

Any of several members of a system consisting of the gene products of at least four linked loci (A, B, C, and D) and a number of subloci on the sixth human chromosome that have been shown to have a strong influence on human allotransplantation, transfusions in refractory patients, and some disease associations.

human

see homo-.

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human carriers

humans who act as active carriers of diseases of animals and infect animals.

human immunodeficiency virus

includes HIV1 (more common) and HIV2 which are lentiviruses that cause acquired immunodeficiency disease (AIDS) in humans.

human leukocyte antigen

see major histocompatibility complex.