Levels of soluble HLA-G in amniotic fluid are related to the sex of the offspring.

Summary Although HLA-G is thought to play a modulatory role in the immune system, its function and expression require to be elucidated. We analysed soluble HLA-G levels in mid-trimester amniotic fluid (n = 64) from uncomplicated pregnancies. We found a decrease in soluble HLA-G levels for female offspring as compared to male offspring (P < 0.007). This may be a consequence of the immuno-modulatory capacity of HLA-G.