HLA-G is a HLA class I molecule, but it is distinct from other class I molecules because of its quasi-monomorphism and restricted tissue distribution. It can be expressed as seven distinct protein forms. HLA-G1, -G2, G3, and -G4 are membrane bound while HLA-G5, -G6, and G7 are soluble. HLA-G is expressed in healthy individuals on amniocytes and cytotrophoblasts in the amnion-chorion. HLA-G interacts with inhibitory receptors such as ILT-2, ILT-4, p49 and KIR2DL4 expressed on NK cells, shifts the cytokine balance towards Th2 dominance, suppresses the proliferation of allogeneic CD4 lymphocytes and, in its soluble form, induces apoptosis of activated CD8 cells and inhibits cytolysis by NK cells.
This antibody is routinely tested by flow cytometric analysis. Other applications were tested at BD Biosciences Pharmingen during antibody development only or reported in the literature.