HLA loci and respiratory allergic diseases

Abstract

HLA cell-surface glycoprotein molecules act in the very beginning of the allergic sensitization process, making them natural candidates for research on the genetic susceptibility for respiratory allergies. Thus, along past decades, this topic has been subject to some research and, consequently, several HLA alleles have been implicated in respiratory allergic diseases development. Current editorial introduces, revise, summarize, and comment the major advances in the role of HLA genes for the development of, and protection against, respiratory allergic disease. A general picture is drawn and new challenges on the field are relocated, especially those that might enlighten respiratory allergies aetiology and, thus, contribute in advances for diagnosis and treatment.