Role of Molecular Tools in Tissue Transplantation

Testing for histocompatibility antigens of donor-recipient pairs is a crucial component in solid organ and bone marrow transplantation. The technology behind this testing has developed substantially from the first observations in the 1950s of leukoagglutination using sera of multiparous women to the polymerase chain reaction methodologies of the 1990s. Molecular techniques have begun to unravel the structure and interrelationships of the major histocompatibility complex genes. Increased understanding of these genes through the use of molecular tools will contribute to the improved success of tissue graft survival.