Immunogenetic analysis of rheumatoid arthritis.

Statistical association between rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and the HLA-D region antigen, HLA-DR4-MT3, was confirmed. HLA-linked immune suppression genes (Is-genes) were demonstrate, which controlled proliferative T cell response to streptococcal cell wall antigen or IgE response to cedar pollen antigen in vitro. The absence of such genes may predispose to autoimmune diseases or allergy. An HLA-linked Is-gene in negative linkage disequilibrium with HLA-DR4-MT3 was proposed to be one of the most likely genetic factors determining the resistance to RA.