A new HLA Bw16 subtype defined in both Negroid and Saudi Arabian populations.

Serological identification of a new HLA-Bw16 subtype, B39B, was made by the analysis of reaction patterns of many alloantisera and one monoclonal antibody. The B39B pattern of reactivity was shown to be distinct from HLA-Bw38, Bw39, and 8w57. Cytotoxicity testing before and after absorption suggests that the B39B specificity belongs to the HLA-B7 cross-reactive group. The B39B was clearly demonstrated in two families. This antigen was detected in Negroids and Saudi Arabian Caucasoids but not in a large panel of British Caucasoids.