Rabbit Polyclonal HLA-DRB1 Antibody

HLA-DRB1 antibodies target specific variants of the HLA-DRB1 molecule, a critical component of the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class II system. Encoded by the HLA-DRB1 gene on chromosome 6. this molecule plays a central role in antigen presentation to CD4+ T cells, triggering adaptive immune responses. HLA-DRB1 exhibits extensive allelic polymorphism, contributing to population-level immune diversity. Antibodies against HLA-DRB1 typically arise following alloantigen exposure, such as through pregnancy, blood transfusions, or organ transplantation. These antibodies are clinically significant in transplant medicine, as preformed or de novo anti-HLA-DRB1 antibodies can mediate graft rejection by activating complement pathways or antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity. They are also implicated in transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI) and platelet refractoriness. In autoimmune contexts, certain HLA-DRB1 alleles (e.g., *04:01. *04:04) are strongly associated with susceptibility to rheumatoid arthritis, though the role of corresponding antibodies remains less defined. Detection methods include single-antigen bead assays, which identify antibody specificity and strength. HLA-DRB1 antibody screening is now standard in transplant compatibility testing, guiding donor selection and desensitization protocols. However, not all detected antibodies are clinically relevant, requiring careful interpretation alongside clinical context. Ongoing research explores mechanisms of antibody-mediated injury and strategies to mitigate their pathological effects.