Role of the HLA class II: HCV-related disorders

Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2007 Jun:1107:308-18. doi: 10.1196/annals.1381.033.

Abstract

The paper highlights the role of different HLA class II molecules in hepatic and lymphoproliferative HCV-related disorders. HLA molecules have been reviewed, according to an in silico cluster classification, based on the sequence, the biochemical structure of the pockets, and the functional characteristics of the HLA II molecules. Thus, by reducing the complexity of HLA II polymorphism, characteristics that unite different HLA molecules with specific HCV-associated pathologies may be recognized with greater case. Results show that HLA clusters associated with better dlimination of the virus are protective against HCC development, while the same clusters are associated with a higher risk of developing cryoglobulinemic syndrome and the concomitant NHL. These data added further acknowledgements on pathogenetic mechanisms associated with HCV infection. Results also highlight differences of NHL occurring in HCV-positive subjects, with or without a concomitant type II autoimmune cryoglobulinemic syndrome, suggesting that cryoglobulinemic background associated with NHL should be considered in the evaluation of the effectiveness of new therapies in the course of HCV-associated NHLs.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Autoimmune Diseases / immunology
  • Autoimmune Diseases / pathology
  • Cryoglobulinemia / immunology
  • Cryoglobulinemia / pathology
  • Fibrosis / immunology
  • Fibrosis / pathology
  • Fibrosis / virology
  • Hepacivirus / immunology
  • Hepacivirus / pathogenicity
  • Hepatitis C / immunology*
  • Hepatitis C / pathology*
  • Hepatitis C / virology
  • Histocompatibility Antigens Class II / immunology*
  • Humans
  • Liver Neoplasms / immunology
  • Liver Neoplasms / pathology
  • Liver Neoplasms / virology
  • Lymphoma, B-Cell / immunology
  • Lymphoma, B-Cell / pathology
  • T-Lymphocytes, Helper-Inducer / immunology

Substances

  • Histocompatibility Antigens Class II