HLA-A1

HLA-A1 is a human leukocyte antigen serotype within HLA-A serotype group. The serotype is determined by the antibody recognition of α1 subset of HLA-A. The cell-surface expression of HLA-A1 is higher than most other HLA-A antigens. HLA-A1 is associated with a number of diseases, including ankylosing spondylitis and celiac disease.

Structure and Function

HLA-A1 is a protein that plays a crucial role in the immune system. It is part of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules, which present peptides from inside the cell to T cells, a type of white blood cell that kills cells that are infected with viruses or have become cancerous.

Disease Associations

HLA-A1 has been associated with a number of diseases. For example, it has been linked to an increased risk of developing ankylosing spondylitis, a type of arthritis that affects the spine. It has also been associated with celiac disease, a condition in which the ingestion of gluten leads to damage in the small intestine.

Distribution

HLA-A1 is found at highest frequencies in Western Europe, particularly in Ireland and Spain. It is also common in North Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia. It is less common in East Asia and the Americas.

See Also

• HLA-A
• Major histocompatibility complex
• Ankylosing spondylitis
• Celiac disease