[MHC-dependent molecular mechanisms of susceptibility and protection in type I diabetes in Mexicans].

MHC class II genes play an important role in the autoimmune destruction of the pancreatic b-cell occurring in IDDM. The genetic pattern of the disease was investigated in Mexican Mestizos. The serological findings of HLA antigens showed a significant association of DR3, DR4, DQ2 and DQ8 and a protective effect of DR11, DR15, DQ5, DQ6 and DQ7.