Non-HLA immunogenetic polymorphisms and the risk of complications after allogeneic hemopoietic stem-cell transplantation

Abstract

Background. Existing data indicate that non-human leukocyte antigen (HLA) immunogenetic polymorphisms influence the risk of complications after allogeneic hemopoietic stem-cell transplantation. However, prior studies have been limited by small sample size and limited genotyping. Methods. We examined 22 polymorphisms in 11 immunoregulatory genes including cytokines, mediators of apoptosis, and host-defense molecules by polymerase chain reaction using sequence-specific primers in 160 related myeloablative transplants. Associations were confirmed in two independent cohorts. Results. An intronic polymorphism in the tumor necrosis factor gene (TNF 488A) was associated with the risk of acute graft..