Human Lymphocyte Antigen (HLA) system has a central role in the immune response. HLA proteins present peptides to T cells and B cells/plasma cells can produce antibodies against HLA proteins. Therefore, HLA antigens and antibodies are the main barrier in solid organ transplantation (SOT). This presentation describes the basic characteristics of the HLA system (like structure and function) and how HLA antibodies are detected in the laboratory. This presentation also describes an overview of the SOT system in USA, from the role of the HLA laboratory to the organ allocation process.

After this presentation attendees should be able to:
1 Describe the basic characterizes of the HLA system.
2 Discuss the central role the HLA in the immune system and transplantation.
3 Explain the transplantation process in USA.

Idoia Gimferrer, MD, PhD, D(ABHI)
Clinical Associate Professor
Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology
University of Washington
Director Immunogenetics/HLA lab, BloodworksNW

09/28/22