HLA-A33

HLA-A33 is a human leukocyte antigen serotype within the HLA-A serotype group. The serotype is determined by the antibody recognition of antigen A*33. This broad antigen group also includes the more specific HLA-A*3301 and HLA-A*3303 antigens. HLA-A33 is associated with certain diseases, including Hepatitis B and nasopharyngeal carcinoma.

Structure and Function

HLA-A33 is a protein that plays a crucial role in the regulation of the immune system in humans. It is part of the HLA class I heavy chain paralogues. This class I molecule is a heterodimer consisting of a heavy chain and a light chain (beta-2 microglobulin). The heavy chain is approximately 45 kDa and its gene contains 8 exons. The heavy chain is anchored in the membrane. Class I molecules play a central role in the immune system by presenting peptides derived from the endoplasmic reticulum lumen.

Disease Associations

HLA-A33 has been associated with an increased susceptibility to Hepatitis B infection. Studies have shown that individuals with the HLA-A33 antigen are more likely to develop chronic hepatitis B infection.

In addition, HLA-A33 is also associated with an increased risk of developing nasopharyngeal carcinoma, a type of head and neck cancer. This association is particularly strong in populations in East Asia, where the HLA-A33 antigen is more common.

See Also

• HLA-A
• Human leukocyte antigen
• Hepatitis B
• Nasopharyngeal carcinoma