Analyses of HLA-DQ Alleles in Recurrent Spontaneous Abortion (RSA) Couples

PROBLEM: The influence of HLA sharing on pregnancy outcome is controversial. In renal transplantation, HLA-DQB1 donor-recipient mismatches have been shown beneficial for long-term transplant success. Since pregnancy is defined as Nature's allograft, we investigated the relevance of HLA-DQ mismatching in normal reproducing couples compared to couples experiencing RSA.

METHOD: Unexplained RSA couples referred to our laboratory for immunological testing were classified by immunological findings and obstetrical history. Primary RSA couples shared ≥ 2 HLA-A, B, or DR antigens, had no cytotoxic anti-paternal antibodies, and no gestation beyond 20 weeks. Secondary RSA couples had cytotoxic anti-paternal antibodies and RSA after a live birth. HLA-DQA1 and DQB1 alleles were identified by PCR-SSP.

RESULTS: No differences in DQA1 and DQB1 mismatch were observed among RSA patients and controls. DQA1-DQB1 haplotype mismatches were not different among the three groups of couples.

CONCLUSIONS: In contrast to renal transplant, HLA-DQ incompatibility did not differ among RSA couples compared with successful reproducing couples.