HLA (journal)

HLA (pronounced as /ˈeɪtʃˈɛlˈeɪ/) is a scientific journal that publishes research in the field of immunogenetics. The journal is named after the Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) system, which is the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) in humans.

Etymology

The term "HLA" is an acronym for "Human Leukocyte Antigen". The name was chosen because these antigens were first discovered on the surface of leukocytes, which are a type of white blood cell. The term "antigen" refers to any substance that can trigger an immune response.

Related Terms

Immunogenetics: The branch of medical genetics that explores the relationship between the immune system and genetics.
Leukocytes: White blood cells that are involved in protecting the body against both infectious disease and foreign invaders.
Antigen: Any substance that causes your immune system to produce antibodies against it.
Immune response: The reaction of the cells and fluids of the body to the presence of a substance which is not recognized as a constituent of the body itself.
Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC): A set of cell surface proteins essential for the acquired immune system to recognize foreign molecules in vertebrates, which in turn determines histocompatibility.