HLA AND T-CELL RECEPTOR GENE POLYMORPHISMS IN GUILLAIN-BARRE-SYNDROME

Objective: We examined a possible involvement of genetic factors influ encing the development of Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS). Methods: We s tudied T-cell receptor (TCR), alpha-chain constant (AC), and beta-chai n variable (BV) gene polymorphisms using microsatellite markers and se rologic HLA class I antigens, HLA-DRB1, and HLA-DQB1 alleles in 81 Jap anese patients with GBS and 87 controls. Results: There were no signif icant differences in these genetic markers between GBS patients and co ntrols. Subgrouping of GBS patients according to recent Campylobacter jejuni infection, the presence of anti-GM1 antibody in the sera, or th eir combinations also failed to reveal significant associations with t hese genetic markers. There was, however, st tendency for an increased frequency of HLA-DRB10803 in the C. jejuni + GM1 + GBS group, when c ompared with controls. Conclusions: The data suggest that the roles of TCRAC, T-cell receptor beta-chain variable (TCRBV), HLA class I or cl ass II in the development of GBS are not critical, and further researc h is necessary to clarify other genes encoded within the HLA region fo r genetic susceptibility to GBS.