Perspectives on the Genetics of the Gm System and its Role in Immune Response and Diseases

Abstract

Recent methods for detecting and quantifying immunoglobulin allotypes are discussed. Application of recombinant DNA technology to the study of immunoglobulin genes and its advantages and disadvantages, compared with the widely-used serological allotyping methods, are presented. Limitations of current disease association studies are mentioned. Anticipated advances in this area, together with the potential basic and clinical significance of findings from such investigations, are discussed.