This set reports the results of the 10th International Histocompatibility Workshop, in which 362 laboratories collaborated over a three year period in research projects on the classification of HLA genes and their products. Volume 1 describes the experimental design of the workshop studies and their results. Volume 2 is a collection of papers on the latest developments in the molecular biology of HLA systems. Immunobiology of HLA is a valuable reference for tissue typing laboratories, blood banks, and general research programs on HLA and related diseases because it identifies common sources of HLA genes and gene products to be used as reference reagents, and because it is the only complete compilation of the latest research and results in the field.

The Tenth International Histocompatibility Workshop of this work, and Fran Berman for her help in preparing component concerning T-cell recognition of HLA class the report. MaryAnn Barletta, Sally Krell, and Halina II molecules drew its strength from the hard work, Korsun provided invaluable help with a multitude of diligence, and selfless spirit of the 23 participating organizational and operational issues. Bo Dupont and laboratories. The enthusiasm and camaraderie exhib Bob Knowles provided sound advice, helpful discus ited by the participants in Princeton during November sions, and continued support. John Hansen, Jean Marc 1987 bear testimony to the caliber of the individuals Lalouel, and the other members ofthe Organizing Com involved. mittee made valuable contributions. Rosemarie Pliitke's Numerous individuals, both inside and outside of the enthusiasm, diligence, and statistical expertise were Organizing Committee, contributed significantly to the vital ingredients in this undertaking. John Klein was success of this component of the Workshop. We thank always ready to step in and assume whatever responsibil David Eckels, Adrianna Zeevi, Nancy Reinsmoen, and ity was necessary to keep the work going. Above all, I Eric Mickelson for their continued advice, encourage owe special and personal thanks to my family, whose ment, and hard work throughout this endeavor. We thank patience, support, and understanding helped to sustain Deborah Richardson for her help during the early stages me over the last 2 years."

A comprehensive guide to the HLA (Human Leukocyte Antigen) system for immunologists and clinicians, this book contains up-to-date information on the MHC (Major Histocompatibility Complex) and its role in the immune response and in various diseases. The book explores the biological significance and role of the HLA system in organ and haematopoietic stem cell transplantation management. This volume is an invaluable guide to the full spectrum of HLA-related science while also serving as a conceptual and technical resource for those involved in HLA-related research and in clinical or surgical practice. In addition, it will be a primary point of contact for individuals working in other areas who suddenly find that their research is drawing them into the complexities of HLA genetics.

This set reports the results of the 10th International Histocompatibility Workshop, in which 362 laboratories collaborated over a three year period in research projects on the classification of HLA genes and their products. "Volume 1" describes the experimental design of the workshop studies and their results. "Volume 2" is a collection of papers on the latest developments in the molecular biology of HLA systems. Immunobiology of HLA is a valuable reference for tissue typing laboratories, blood banks, and general research programs on HLA and related diseases because it identifies common sources of HLA genes and gene products to be used as reference reagents, and because it is the only complete compilation of the latest research and results in the field.

The Janeway's Immunobiology CD-ROM, Immunobiology Interactive, is included with each book, and can be purchased separately. It contains animations and videos with voiceover narration, as well as the figures from the text for presentation purposes.

The non-classical HLA class I molecule HLA-G is different from classical HLA class I molecules because of the low polymorphism in the coding region, the fact that HLA-G primary transcript is alternatively spliced in seven isoforms, and the inhibitory action on immune cells. Although HLA-G is low polymorphic, variants in both promoter and 3’ un-translated region (UTR) of HLA-G locus regulate its expression. In healthy conditions, a basal level of HLA-G gene transcription is observed in most cells and tissues; however, translation into HLA-G protein is restricted to trophoblasts in the placenta, where it participates in promoting tolerance at the fetal-maternal interface. HLA-G is also expressed by thymic epitelial, cornea, mesenchymal stem cells, nail matrix, pancreatic beta cells, erythroid, and endothelial precursors. HLA-G can be neo-expressed in adult tissues in pathological conditions, and its expression has been documented autoimmune disorders, viral infections, and cancer. In the latter setting de novo HLA-G expression is associated with the capability of tumor cells to evade the immune control. In the last decade it has become evident that HLA-G expression on T cells and antigenpresenting cells confers to these cells tolerogenic properties. This Research Topic focused on i) summarizing updated clinical and immunological evidences that HLA-G expression is associate with beneficial or detrimental tolerance, ii) gathering new insights into the mechanisms governing the expression of HLA-G in healthy and pathological conditions, such as pre-eclampsia, and iii) examining the mechanisms underlying HLA-G mediated tolerance.