What is human leukocyte antigen?
Sep 23, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Feng
Introduction
Human leukocyte antigens are a group of proteins on the surface of human cells, primarily responsible for distinguishing self-cells from foreign cells and playing an important role in immune responses. These antigens are widely present on the surface of nearly all nucleated cells in the human body and are encoded by a cluster of genes located on chromosome 6, exhibiting high individual specificity.
Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) is a group of proteins found on the surface of human cells, primarily responsible for distinguishing between self and foreign cells, playing an important role in immune responses. The detailed analysis is as follows:
HLA molecules are widely present on the surface of nearly all nucleated cells in the human body and are encoded by a cluster of genes located on chromosome 6, exhibiting high individual specificity. Under normal physiological conditions, these antigens help the immune system recognize self-cells, preventing autoimmune attacks on the body's own tissues and maintaining bodily homeostasis. When foreign pathogens such as bacteria or viruses invade, HLA molecules present characteristic information from the pathogens to immune cells, triggering an immune response to eliminate the invaders and protect the body from infection.
The degree of HLA compatibility has significant medical implications. For example, in organ transplantation, the higher the HLA match between donor and recipient, the lower the risk of postoperative rejection reactions, thereby increasing the success rate of transplantation.
In daily life, maintaining regular作息 (sleep patterns), balanced nutrition, and a healthy lifestyle helps support normal immune function, allowing human leukocyte antigens to perform their roles more effectively.
