HLA-GM INTERACTIONS - CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Abstract

There is of necessity extreme polymorphism in the genetic determinants which influence immune responsiveness. This polymorphism, particularly in the genes of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) and the immunoglobulin genes, is expressed in different racial groups to varying degrees and is presumably dependent upon exposure to local environmental antigenic challenges from parasites, microorganisms, plants and foods. The immunogenetic polymorphism operates at the individual level to combat disease and at the 'herd' level to control epidemics. Selective forces acting on these polymorphic immunogenetic systems presumably lead to phenotypes which differ in susceptibility to diseases that a..