Soluble HLA-G: Are they clinically relevant?

Semin Cancer Biol. 2007 Dec;17(6):469-79. doi: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2007.07.004. Epub 2007 Jul 31.

Abstract

HLA-G is a non-classical HLA-class Ib molecule with multiple immunoregulatory properties. Its main function in physiological conditions is to abrogate maternal NK cell activity against foetal tissue and to establish immune tolerance at maternal-foetal interface. HLA-G is expressed not only as a membrane bound molecule on the surface of cells, but also as a soluble moiety in body fluids. The major isoforms of HLA-G present in serum are soluble HLA-G1 and HLA-G5 which are generated by shedding or proteolytic cleavage of the membrane bound isoform and by secretion of a soluble isoform, respectively. Here we review the data about soluble HLA-G (sHLA-G) serum levels in different pathological conditions, including immune-mediated disorders, transplantation and malignancies. In particular, we focus on sHLA-G expression and function in human neuroblastoma, a pediatric tumor, with special emphasis on a novel potential immuno escape mechanism utilized by NB to instruct monocytes to produce and release sHLA-G. Finally, the potential clinical relevance of sHLA-G serum levels is discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Autoimmune Diseases / blood
  • Autoimmune Diseases / immunology*
  • Cytokines / immunology
  • Cytokines / metabolism
  • HLA Antigens / blood*
  • HLA Antigens / immunology
  • HLA-G Antigens
  • Histocompatibility Antigens Class I / blood*
  • Histocompatibility Antigens Class I / immunology
  • Humans
  • Immune Tolerance
  • Monocytes / immunology
  • Monocytes / metabolism
  • Neoplasms / blood
  • Neoplasms / immunology*
  • Neuroblastoma / blood
  • Neuroblastoma / immunology*
  • Transplantation Immunology*

Substances

  • Cytokines
  • HLA Antigens
  • HLA-G Antigens
  • Histocompatibility Antigens Class I