HLA-B22

HLA-B22 is a human leukocyte antigen serotype within HLA-B serotype group. The serotype is determined by the antibody recognition of antigen B22. This broader serotype is a split antigen of the B12 broad antigen, and B22 is a split of the B21 antigen. HLA-B22 is associated with certain diseases, including ankylosing spondylitis and Behcet's disease.

Structure and Function

HLA-B22 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the HLA-B gene. This protein is a part of the HLA system, which plays a central role in the immune system by presenting peptides derived from the proteasome. HLA-B22 is a cell surface protein that interacts with other proteins and molecules to play a crucial role in immune response.

Disease Associations

HLA-B22 has been associated with a number of diseases. It is strongly associated with ankylosing spondylitis, a type of arthritis that affects the spine. It is also associated with Behcet's disease, a rare disorder that causes blood vessel inflammation throughout the body.

Clinical Significance

The presence of HLA-B22 can be clinically significant. It can be used as a marker to help diagnose certain diseases, such as ankylosing spondylitis and Behcet's disease. It can also be used to predict the likelihood of these diseases developing in individuals who carry this antigen.

See Also

• HLA-B
• Human leukocyte antigen
• Ankylosing spondylitis
• Behcet's disease