Answer :
Final answer:
The study by Dooley et al. (2018) is centered on using histopathological whole-slide imaging to predict heart transplant rejection, a method involving the microscopic analysis of tissue samples. It recognizes the importance of a close HLA match between donor and recipient for successful transplant outcomes. Correct option is b) Prediction using histopathological whole-slide imaging.
Explanation:
The study by Dooley et al. (2018) focuses on the prediction of heart transplant rejection using histopathological whole-slide imaging. This approach involves analyzing images of tissue samples at a microscopic level to identify characteristics that may indicate a potential for transplant rejection. Transplant rejection is a complex immunological phenomenon where the recipient's immune system recognizes the donor tissue as foreign and initiates an immune response. The importance of tissue typing and determining the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules, particularly human leukocyte antigens (HLAs), is paramount in reducing the risk of transplant rejection.
The closer the HLA match between donor and recipient, the greater the chances of transplant tolerance and success. Although genomics can be utilized to decrease transplant rejection by identifying genetic markers for a better tissue match, as well as predicting genetic diseases (and therefore potentially tailoring personalized immunosuppression therapies), it is not the focus of the Dooley et al. study. To mention the correct option in the final answer, the focus of their study is 'b) Prediction using histopathological whole-slide imaging' according to the options provided.
