HLA‐G Expression in Placenta in Relation to HLA‐G Genotype and Polymorphisms

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Problem:  The expression of the non‐classical human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class Ib gene, HLA‐G, seems to be important at the feto–maternal interface. The HLA‐G molecule is almost monomorphic and expressed in both membrane‐bound and soluble isoforms. It has been shown to inhibit natural killer cell ‐mediated lysis and influence cytokine expression. HLA‐G gene polymorphism has been linked to differences in gene expression profile of alternatively spliced HLA‐G transcripts and levels of specific HLA‐G messenger RNA (mRNA) isoforms. Furthermore, aberrant HLA‐G expression has been reported in preeclamptic placentas. On this background it is of general interest to further elucidate any associations between HLA‐G polymorphism and protein expression.Methods:  We have investigated HLA‐G protein expression by immunohistochemistry in HLA‐G genotyped placentas from term. HLA‐G mRNA expression in preeclamptic placentas and in control placentas was also studied by microarray technology.Results and conclusions:  The studies of HLA‐G protein expression in term placentas by immunohistochemical analysis showed no clear associations with HLA‐G genotypes although this could be because of the very semi‐quantitative nature of this technique. However, we found a tendency towards reduction of HLA‐G mRNA expression in placentas from preeclamptic cases compared to matched controls with the use of microarray technology.