KIR-HLA class I combinations in JIA-associated uveitis

Purpose HLA class I-specific killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIR) gene and HLA gene combinations have been associated with autoimmune uveitis (e.g., birdshot chorioretinopathy (BCR) and Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada syndrome (VKH)). In oligoarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), uveitis is one of the most serious complications, affecting approximately 20% of patients. Multiple studies suggest there are HLA Class II associations with chronic anterior uveitis in JIA; however, there is a paucity of evidence demonstrating Class I associations. Given the importance of HLA Class I and KIR gene combinations in other forms of autoimmune uveitis, we hypothesized that an interplay between these genes may contribute to the pathogenesis of uveitis in JIA. To test this hypothesis, we are: 1) determining HLA Class I and KIR gene associations in children with JIA with and without uveitis and comparing them with healthy controls, and 2) determining associations between clinical course and HLA Class I KIR gene associations.