Studies have demonstrated host genetic predisposition to leprosy. Thus, many candidate genes have been identified, and the most consistent associations reported to date were observed among the subtypes of leprosy and certain alleles of genes that encode human leukocyte antigens (HLA). However, these genes probably represent only a small fraction of the many other genetic factors involved in the complex interaction of host gene regulation leading to disease.
Among the genomic regions implicated in genetic susceptibility to leprosy is the association in 6q25, containing the gene regulatory region associated with Parkinson's disease (PARK2) and co-regulator gene PACRG. Other combinations include changes previously reported of a specific gene for a natural resistance associated macrophage protein (NRAMP1), and also a polymorphism in the vitamin D receptor gene (VDR).
Last date updated on April, 2024
Spanish 
Chinese 
Russian 
German 
French 
Japanese 
Portuguese 
Hindi