Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) and Tumor Immunity: A Critical Link in Cancer Immunotherapy

BACKGROUND: Malignant tumors pose a serious threat to human health and survival, with profound economic consequences worldwide. Human leukocyte antigens (HLAs), encoded by the human major histocompatibility complex, represent one of the most polymorphic genetic systems and play a vital role in immune regulation. This review summarizes the structural and functional characteristics of HLA molecules, their polymorphism and expression in tumor tissues, their involvement in tumor progression and immune responses, and their emerging applications in tumor immunotherapy. METHODS: A thorough literature review was conducted focusing on HLA molecules, their genetic variability in tumor tissues, and their impact on tumor immunity and cellular proliferation. The potential clinical utility of targeting HLA molecules in tumor immunotherapy was also evaluated. RESULTS: HLA polymorphisms and expression patterns have been closely associated with tumor initiation, progression, and immune modulation. These molecules influence tumor cell growth and regulate antitumor immune responses, either enhancing or suppressing immunity. HLA molecules are therefore critical in shaping the immune system's capacity to detect and eliminate cancer cells. CONCLUSION: This review underscores the pivotal role of HLA molecules in cancer immunology. A deeper understanding of HLA-tumor interactions offers promising avenues for the development of HLA-based immunotherapies, potentially improving clinical outcomes in cancer treatment.