HLA typing is the analysis of the child's histocompatibility system, like a fingerprint of his or her immune system. This analysis is only necessary when there is an urgent family need for transplants and does not have to be carried out at the time of the cryogenic storage of stem cells. Only a peripheral blood sample is needed, also from adults.
The HLA (Human Leukocyte Antigens) system is a blood and tissue antigen complex, encoded by a series of genes located on the short arm of chromosome 6. Its importance lies in the experimental observation that these antigens are responsible for the series of humoral and cellular reactions that lead to the rejection of a transplant, which is why they are called "histocompatibiltity antigens". They are encoded by strictly related genes and form a cluster that is then transmitted as a whole to offspring, except in cases of recombination.
The HLA determinants are involved in the processes of immune recognition and communication and affect immune response by reducing it.
HLA typing is recommended:
a) for the diagnosis of illnesses that show an association with some HLA system antigens, for example juvenile insulin-dependent diabetes, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis and some autoimmune pathologies;
b) for the preliminary verification essential in organ transplants, to check the similarity of tissue antigens, genetically determined on both donor and recipient cells.
HLA typing is an additional service available on request after consulting the Nanog International Scientific Director, Dr Irene Martini.
The test may be carried out at any time without unfreezing the sample using the specific test tubes.
HLA typing costs 350.00 euro VAT inclusive.
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