Gene HLA-B

Also known as

major histocompatibility complex class I B, HLAB, MHC class I antigen B

Overview

HLA-B (Human Leukocyte Antigen B) encodes an MHC class I cell surface protein essential for presenting intracellular peptides to the immune system. Like HLA-A, it is extremely polymorphic, with thousands of allelic variants documented worldwide. HLA-B molecules play critical roles in immune recognition, transplant compatibility, and disease susceptibility.

HLA-B is the most clinically relevant HLA gene for pharmacogenomics. HLA-B*57:01 causes abacavir hypersensitivity syndrome, making pre-treatment screening mandatory. HLA-B*15:02 predicts severe cutaneous reactions to carbamazepine and phenytoin, particularly in Asian populations. HLA-B*58:01 increases risk of allopurinol-induced Stevens-Johnson syndrome. These pharmacogenomic associations have transformed drug safety practices.

Understanding your HLA-B genetic status provides critical information for medication safety and immune function. Testing for specific HLA-B alleles before starting certain medications can prevent life-threatening hypersensitivity reactions, making this gene essential for personalized medicine.

NutraHacker Raw DNA Analysis Products that include this gene

• WGS Pharmacogenetics Panel

Upload raw DNA data to get your very own analysis of gene HLA-B through your personalized DNA reports.