The Immune Checkpoint HLA-G

Dear Colleagues,

The immune checkpoint HLA-G is a non-classical HLA-class I molecule primarily expressed in extravillous trophoblast cells; it was first described to play a critical role in protecting the fetus from destruction by the maternal immune system. While HLA-G expression in healthy tissues is restricted to immune-privileged sites, it is upregulated in several pathological situations and may be beneficial (allogenic transplantation, autoimmune diseases) or harmful (cancer, viral and parasitic infections) for patients. Unlike other checkpoints, the interaction of HLA-G with ILT-2 and ILT-4 receptors inhibits all actors and blocks all stages of an immune response, from APC activation and effector priming to the function of fully activated CTLs, NK cells or B cells.

The aim of this Special Issue is to present recent advances in HLA-G regulation and HLA-G function in the context of pregnancy, transplantation, cancer, infectious diseases, chronic inflammatory pathologies and autoimmunity. HLA-G can be considered on its own or in conjunction with other known immune checkpoints. In addition, research papers and review articles on the development of therapeutic and monitoring tools involving HLA-G and its receptors are also of interest.

Dr. Philippe Moreau
Guest Editor

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