Organ transplantation immunology

Organ transplantation immunology involves the immune system recognizing a transplanted organ as foreign due to differences in genetics, especially in proteins called human leukocyte antigens (HLA). This recognition triggers an immune response to attack and reject the new organ. To prevent rejection, recipients often take immunosuppressive medications that reduce immune activity, helping the body accept the transplant. Successful transplantation depends on matching donor and recipient HLA types as closely as possible and carefully managing immune suppression to protect the organ while minimizing side effects.