The Transplantation Immunology Unit undertakes research and delivers specialized diagnostic services of histocompatibility and immunogenetics tests, essential for transplantation programs nationwide. The Unit performs and offers specific immunological investigations and training, providing support for both solid organ and blood stem cell transplants.

Transplantation immunology is the study of the immune response that occurs when a graft (organ/tissues/cells) is transplanted from one individual to another. Transplantation is necessary to replace the non-functional or damaged organs/ tissues/ cells due to various diseases or injuries. Transfer of graft requires a histocompatible donor to prevent rejection in the recipient. The donor and recipient are carefully matched before transplantation to minimize the risk of rejection.

HLA typing is also provided for non-transplant purposes such as HLA typing for disease association. Our unit also oversees and works closely with the Malaysian Marrow Donor Registry (MMDR), which has since been rebranded the Malaysian Stem Cell Registry (MSCR).