Analyses of HLA-DQ alleles in recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) couples.
OBJECTIVE
The influence of HLA sharing on pregnancy outcome is controversial. In renal transplantation, HLA-DQB1 donor-recipient mismatches have been shown beneficial for long-term transplant success. Since pregnancy is defined as Nature's allograft, we investigated the relevance of HLA-DQ mismatching in normal reproducing couples compared to couples experiencing RSA.


METHODS
Unexplained RSA couples referred to our laboratory for immunological testing were classified by immunological findings and obstetrical history. Primary RSA couples shared > or = 2 HLA-A, B, or DR antigens, had no cytotoxic anti-paternal antibodies, and no gestation beyond 20 weeks. Secondary RSA couples had cytotoxic anti-paternal antibodies and RSA after a live birth. HLA-DQA1 and DQB1 alleles were identified by PCR-SSP.


RESULTS
No differences in DQA1 and DQB1 mismatch were observed among RSA patients and controls. DQA1-DQB1 haplotype mismatches were not different among the three groups of couples.


CONCLUSIONS
In contrast to renal transplant, HLA-DQ incompatibility did not differ among RSA couples compared with successful reproducing couples.
Wagenknecht
D R
DR
Center for Reproduction and Transplantation Immunology, Methodist Hospital of Indiana, Indianapolis, USA.
Green
K M
KM
McIntyre
J A
JA
D000026:Abortion, Habitual / Q000235:genetics* / Q000276:immunology*; D000483:Alleles; D005260:Female; D005787:Gene Frequency; D006683:HLA-DQ Antigens / Q000032:analysis*; D059848:HLA-DQ alpha-Chains; D006239:Haplotypes; D006650:Histocompatibility Testing; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011247:Pregnancy
D006683:HLA-DQ Antigens; D059848:HLA-DQ alpha-Chains; C069050:HLA-DQA1 antigen