HLA-DRB1/3/4/5 TYP KIT, in Visit Clinic

Variants of the HLA-DRB1 gene are most strongly associated with rheumatoid arthritis — especially “shared epitope” alleles (e.g., HLA‑DRB1*04), which increase risk and severity. HLA‑DRB1 alleles are also linked to other autoimmune conditions such as multiple sclerosis (notably HLA‑DRB1*15:01) and type 1 diabetes (certain DRB1*03/*04 combinations). Testing can aid risk assessment and prognosis.

HLA-DRB1 stands for Human Leukocyte Antigen, DR beta 1. It is a gene that encodes the beta chain of the HLA-DR class II molecule, which presents peptide antigens to CD4+ T cells. HLA-DRB1 is highly polymorphic, influences immune responses, affects susceptibility to certain autoimmune diseases, and is important in tissue typing for organ transplantation.

Yes. Almost everyone carries at least one HLA-DRB1 gene copy — it encodes the main HLA-DR beta chain, a core class II antigen-presenting molecule. Individuals typically have two DRB1 alleles (one per chromosome 6), with many polymorphic variants; some haplotypes also include additional DRB3/4/5 genes. Rare null alleles or deletions exist but are uncommon.

The HLA-DRB1*01:03 allele is a variant of the HLA-DRB1 gene encoding an MHC class II beta chain that presents peptides to CD4+ T cells. It influences immune recognition, affects tissue compatibility in transplantation, and is associated with altered risk for autoimmune conditions—particularly inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Its frequency varies between populations and informs disease risk and donor matching.

HLA is not an autoimmune disease. It denotes a group of genes and proteins that help the immune system recognize self versus non‑self. Certain HLA types (for example HLA‑B27, HLA‑DR4) are associated with increased risk of specific autoimmune conditions, but having an HLA variant alone doesn't cause disease; environment, other genes, and immune triggers also play roles.

HLA-DR4 is a human leukocyte antigen class II allele associated with increased risk of autoimmune disease. It has a strong, well‑established link to rheumatoid arthritis (especially seropositive/erosive forms) and is also associated with type 1 diabetes. DR4 may contribute to susceptibility for other autoimmune conditions and can influence disease severity and immune responses.