HLA-G expression in malignant melanoma.
Both, the expression of HLA-G (a non-classical HLA class I molecule) and the loss of classical HLA class I molecules enable tumor cells to evade from immunosurveillance of the host. Whereas HLA-G down-modulates the immune functions of all cells participating in the immune defence mechanisms, defects on HLA class I expression result in the resistance of tumor cells to cytotoxic T lymphocytes attacks. This contribution reviews the HLA-G expression pattern in malignant melanoma lesions, its correlation to the loss of classical HLA class I antigens, and new aspects of HLA-G regulation.
Rebmann
Vera
V
Institut für Immunologie, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Virchowstr. 171, D-45122 Essen, Germany. immunologie@uni-essen.de
Wagner
Stefan
S
Grosse-Wilde
Hans
H
D045744:Cell Line, Tumor; D015972:Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic; D006680:HLA Antigens / Q000737:chemistry / Q000235:genetics / Q000276:immunology / Q000378:metabolism*; D059951:HLA-G Antigens; D015395:Histocompatibility Antigens Class I / Q000737:chemistry / Q000235:genetics / Q000276:immunology / Q000378:metabolism*; D006801:Humans; D007157:Immunologic Surveillance; D008545:Melanoma / Q000235:genetics / Q000276:immunology* / Q000378:metabolism; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000235:genetics / Q000276:immunology* / Q000378:metabolism; D019139:Tumor Escape
D006680:HLA Antigens; D059951:HLA-G Antigens; D015395:Histocompatibility Antigens Class I