HLA frequencies in the Indian population of Johannesburg.

The HLA class I antigen and haplotype frequencies of the three major Indian groups resident in the Johannesburg area, i.e. Hindus, Muslims and Tamils, were determined. The HLA-A, B and C antigens were tested in 460 healthy individuals. There were striking differences in antigen and haplotype frequencies between the various groups. Of interest was the finding of a complete lack of Aw34 in any of these groups. Although different haplotype frequencies appeared prominent in the different groups, all three groups demonstrated the haplotypes Aw33, B44, B35, Cw4 and B7, Cw7 in linkage disequilibrium. The results indicate dissimilarities between the various groups, underscoring the fact that use of these analyses is essential for the various applications of HLA testing.