The Human Leukocyte Antigen System in Psychiatry: Where Do We Stand?

Abstract

The human leukocyte antigen (HLA) gene cluster, hosted by the major histocompatibility complex (MHC), encodes molecules prominently involved in the regulation of immune/inflammatory processes and the dysfunctional system could lead to a variety of (auto) immuno-inflammatory disorders ranging from infection to cancer. Also given their role in neurodevelopment and neuroplasticity, especially through regulation of microglial activation and synaptic pruning, it is predictable that this highly polymorphic gene region will have genetic influences in major psychiatric disorders. The focus of this review is to summarize the so far acquired knowledge on different aspects of the HLA genetics in major psychiatric disorders, namely, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and autism and to anticipate future research trends in psychiatry.