HLA-DRB1 allel provides the blueprint for making a protein that plays a cruical role in the immune system. The HLA-DRB1 gene is part of a family of genes which are called the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) complex. This complex helps the immune system to differentiate between the body’s own proteins and proteins made by foreign invaders such as viruses and bacteria. The HLA-DRB1 allel is associated with the risk of rheumatoid arthritis.
