Susceptibility gene for non-obstructive azoospermia in the HLA class II region: correlations with Y chromosome microdeletion and spermatogenesis

Int J Androl. 2004 Feb;27(1):37-41. doi: 10.1046/j.0105-6263.2003.00445.x.

Abstract

We previously reported an association between the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) haplotype DRB1*1302-DQB1*0604 in the HLA class II region and non-obstructive azoospermia in Japanese men. To identify possible associations between the HLA-DRB1*1302-DQB1*0604 allele in the HLA class II region and azoospermia factor (AZF) deletion in the Y chromosome, we performed genomic polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis of the AZF region. We then determined spermatogenic impairment (Johnsen score) in testicular biopsy specimens from patients with or without the DRB1*1302-DQB1*0604 haplotype. The AZF microdeletion rate in patients with this haplotype was 3.85%, compared with 11.8% in others (no correlation). However, Johnsen scores in patients with the DRB1*1302-DQB1*0604 haplotype were 3.13 +/- 1.34 (mean +/- SD), compared with 3.70 +/- 1.51 in others (p < 0.05). While the DRB1*1302-DQB1*0604 haplotype acts independently from Y chromosome deletion, the haplotype might either act directly, or be functionally related to an unknown autosomal gene. In either case, this haplotype showed association with severe spermatogenic impairment.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Chromosome Deletion*
  • Chromosomes, Human, Y*
  • HLA-DQ Antigens / genetics*
  • HLA-DR Antigens / genetics*
  • Haplotypes
  • Humans
  • Japan
  • Male
  • Oligospermia / genetics*
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction
  • Spermatogenesis / genetics*

Substances

  • HLA-DQ Antigens
  • HLA-DR Antigens