Expression profiling of major histocompatibility and natural killer complex genes reveals candidates for controlling risk of graft versus host disease.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) is the most important genomic region that contributes to the risk of graft versus host disease (GVHD) after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Matching of MHC class I and II genes is essential for the success of transplantation. However, the MHC contains additional genes that also contribute to the risk of developing acute GVHD. It is difficult to identify these genes by genetic association studies alone due to linkage disequilibrium in this region. Therefore, we aimed to identify MHC genes and other genes involved in the pathophysiology of GVHD by mRNA expression profiling.

Methodology/principal findings

To reduce the complexity of the task, we used genetically well-defined rat inbred strains and a rat skin explan

SUBMITTER: Novota P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3030590 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature