Research Links Pathogen Adaptation to Autoimmune Risks in Han Chinese Population
A new study explores how HLA gene evolution in Han Chinese influences resistance to pathogens and risk of autoimmune diseases, highlighting the origins of immune-related conditions through evolutionary insights.
A groundbreaking study conducted by Profs. Xu Tao and He Shunmin from the Chinese Academy of Sciences' Institute of Biophysics has shed light on the complex relationship between human immune genetics and disease susceptibility. The research focused on the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genes, which are crucial components of the immune response, and explored how their evolution influences resistance to pathogens as well as vulnerability to autoimmune conditions.
Centered on the Han Chinese population, the study provided new insights into the co-evolutionary dynamics between humans and infectious agents. Utilizing the extensive NyuWa genome resource, researchers employed advanced high-resolution genotyping to analyze 31 HLA genes across a sample of 8,278 individuals globally. The genotyping achieved remarkable accuracy, with precision between 94% and 97% at the amino acid level, making it one of the most comprehensive datasets on HLA gene diversity, especially among Han Chinese populations.
This publicly accessible data set has enabled researchers to examine the genetic correlations between HLA alleles associated with pathogen adaptation and those linked to increased autoimmune disease risk. Their findings suggest that many HLA variants that have evolved to combat infectious agents may also predispose individuals to autoimmune disorders. This reflects a core principle of evolutionary medicine: traits that provide defense against pathogens can inadvertently heighten the likelihood of immune dysregulation in modern environments.
The study's conclusions contribute to a deeper understanding of the origins and development of autoimmune diseases within the context of human evolution and pathogen interactions. They also hold significant implications for improving medical practices by considering evolutionary perspectives in disease management and treatment strategies.
More details can be found in the publication "The Pathogen Adaptation of HLA Alleles and the Correlation with Autoimmune Diseases in the Han Chinese" in Genomics, Proteomics & Bioinformatics (2025).
Source: Medical Xpress
Stay Updated with Mia's Feed
Get the latest health & wellness insights delivered straight to your inbox.
Related Articles
The Rise of 3D Bioprinting and the Impact of Patent Laws
3D bioprinting is transforming medicine, but current patent laws may hinder innovation and commercialization. Discover how legal frameworks impact this rapidly growing field.
New Insights into the Immune System's Role in Protecting the Gut During Infection
Scientists from McGill University have uncovered a novel immune pathway that helps protect the intestine during parasitic infections, offering new potential treatments for digestive diseases worldwide.
Many Physicians Would Consider Assisted Dying for Themselves in Cases of Advanced Illness
An international survey shows that over half of doctors would consider assisted dying if faced with advanced cancer or Alzheimer's, influenced by legislation and personal beliefs.
Insufficient Evidence for Neurosteroid Drugs in Managing Postnatal Depression
Current studies do not conclusively support the use of new neurosteroid drugs like Zuranolone, Brexanolone, and Ganaxolone for postnatal depression. Further research is needed before they can be recommended in clinical practice.