Review Article

Human Leukocyte and Platelet Antigens in Transplantation and Transfusion Medicine: Precision Immunology, Molecular Advances, Clinical Applications, and Future Perspectives

Abstract

Human leukocyte antigens (HLAs) and human platelet antigens (HPAs) are highly polymorphic immunogenetic systems essential for immune recognition, transplantation, and transfusion medicine. Their genetic diversity influences donor–recipient compatibility, alloimmune responses, graft survival, and transfusion outcomes. This review examines their molecular genetics, biological functions, population diversity, clinical significance, emerging technologies, challenges, and research priorities. A narrative review of peerreviewed literature, international guidelines, consensus statements, registry reports, and authoritative databases was conducted, critically synthesizing evidence on immunogenetics, transplantation, transfusion medicine, molecular diagnostics, artificial intelligence, and precision medicine. Advances in high-resolution typing, next-generation sequencing, long-read sequencing, multi-omics, and artificial intelligence have improved compatibility assessment, donor selection, alloantibody detection, and clinical decision-making, supporting better outcomes in solid organ and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Molecular characterization has also enhanced the diagnosis and management of platelet transfusion refractoriness, fetal and neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia, and other alloimmune disorders. Emerging computational approaches and genome editing offer further opportunities for personalized care and therapeutic innovation. Integrating genomic technologies, molecular diagnostics, and computational biology can advance precision immunogenetic medicine. Addressing donor shortages, population underrepresentation, ethical concerns, and implementation costs through interdisciplinary research and international collaboration is essential for improving transplantation outcomes, transfusion safety, and equitable healthcare.

Authors affiliation:

Francisca Obianuju Ndubuisi: Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Health Science and Technology, University of Nigeria.
Silas Anayo Ufelle: Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Health Science and Technology, University of Nigeria. 
Alphonsus Ogbonna Ogbuabor (ORCID): Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Agbani, Nigeria. 

How To Cite: F.O. Ndubuisi, S.A. Ufelle, and A.O. Ogbuabor. Human Leukocyte and Platelet Antigens in Transplantation and Transfusion Medicine: Precision Immunology, Molecular Advances, Clinical Applications, and Future Perspectives. Journal of Cardiovascular and Clinical Medicine, 1(2):13–21, 2026. https://doi.org/10.58612/jccm122