The role of HLA genes in pharmacogenomics: unravelling HLA associated adverse drug reactions

Genetic polymorphism in the genes encoding the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) molecules enables presentation of a wide range peptide ligands thus maximising immune surveillance of pathogens. A consequence of the diversification of the HLA Ag-binding pocket is the enhanced opportunity for off-target binding of small drugs by HLA molecules, with subsequent immune reactivity. These potential off-target interactions are 'set up' to generate T...