Genes associated with Sjogren's Syndrome (SS) are found in the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) region of the human genome. This region, also known as the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) region, is responsible for many immune-related diseases. In SS, the particular genes associated are HLA-DR3, HLA-DR4, and HLA-DQ2, as well as other functionally related genes in the HLA region.
The HLA-DR3 and HLA-DR4 genes encode molecules on the surface of antigen-presenting cells that bind to and present peptides to T-cells. These genes are associated with a number of autoimmune diseases, including SS. The HLA-DQ2 gene encodes a molecule on the surface of B-cells that binds to and presents peptides to T-cells. This gene is associated with autoimmune diseases including SS.
In addition to the HLA-DR3, HLA-DR4, and HLA-DQ2 genes, other genes in the MHC region have been associated with SS. These include genes encoding cytokines, chemokines, and other proteins involved in the immune response. These genes, such as HLA-B, HLA-C, HLA-DQA1, and HLA-DQB1, may be important for the development of SS as they are involved in the recognition of self-antigens by the immune system.
Finally, genes outside of the MHC region may also be associated with SS. These include genes involved in apoptosis, the regulation of inflammation, and the production of immunoglobulins. The exact role of these genes in SS is still being studied but they may be important in the development and progression of the disease.