Methodological strategies for mapping HLA susceptibility loci in vitiligo: A focused minireview

Some genes, such as HLA class I and class II genes, play important roles in the pathogenesis of vitiligo and its associated autoimmune diseases. Attempts to identify these genes have involved several approaches, including analysis of HLA expression patterns, genetic association studies, and genome-wide association studies. These strategies employ a variety of laboratory techniques, each with distinct advantages and limitations. This review provides a comprehensive overview of current strategies for identifying HLA genes linked to vitiligo susceptibility, with a critical comparison of study designs and methodological approaches. Enhancing these methods is essential to improve accuracy and reliability, ultimately facilitating the development of therapeutic targets and clinically relevant diagnostic biomarkers for patients with vitiligo.