[The HLA system. An introduction].
The cellular identity is determined by the cell surface antigens. The recognition of self and non-self in vertebrates is mainly controlled by antigens and coded for by the major histocompatibility complex (MHC). Upon recognition of a foreign antigen, the immune system does not only initiate a reaction with the help of cytotoxic T-cells, phagocytes and humoral antibodies; memory cells are also generated, enabling a very swift and powerful response after repeated exposure to the same foreign antigens. These characteristics, although essential for the survival of the organism in a hostile environment, can markedly limit the life of useful and potentially lifesaving organ transplants.
Medizinische Klinik III, Zentralkrankenhaus St. Jürgenstrasse, Bremen.
E T
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Rutayungwa
F A
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Zantvoort
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Lison
D006084:Graft Rejection / Q000276:immunology; D006680:HLA Antigens / Q000145:classification / Q000276:immunology*; D006650:Histocompatibility Testing; D006801:Humans; D016030:Kidney Transplantation / Q000276:immunology*; D008285:Major Histocompatibility Complex / Q000276:immunology; D013601:T-Lymphocytes / Q000276:immunology; D014181:Transplantation Immunology / Q000276:immunology
D006680:HLA Antigens
Das HLA-System. Eine Einführung.