Defining genetic risk for graft-versus-host disease and mortality following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose of review

This review explores what is known about the genetics of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HCT) and how genetic polymorphism affects risk of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) and mortality.

Recent findings

Genetic variation found across the human genome can impact HCT outcome by causing genetic disparity between patient and donor and modifying gene function. Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and structural variation can result in mismatching for cellular peptides known as histocompatibility antigens. At least 25-30 polymorphic genes are known to encode functional histocompatibility antigens in mismatched individuals, but their individual contribution to clinical GVHD is unclear. HCT outcome may also be affected by polymorphism in donor or recipient

SUBMITTER: Hansen JA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3177530 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature