Before a bone marrow transplant, what is screened between donor and recipient cells?

The correct choice, which focuses on informative loci, highlights the importance of ensuring compatibility between donor and recipient cells before a bone marrow transplant. Informative loci refer to specific genetic markers on chromosomes that are known to vary among individuals. Analyzing these loci helps in determining the histocompatibility of the donor and recipient, which is crucial for the success of the transplant.

In this context, the screening for informative loci allows clinicians to assess the likelihood of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), where the donor's immune cells might attack the recipient's tissues. The closer the match in these loci, the better the chances for a successful transplantation outcome and lower risk of complications.

Blood type matches are fundamentally important in transfusions but play a lesser role in the context of bone marrow transplant compatibility. While matching blood types can prevent immediate reactions and complications, the genetic compatibility indicated by informative loci is more crucial for the acceptance of the graft.

Identical genetic markers can imply the same or very similar DNA sequences, but in practice, perfect matches are rare. The focus is more on compatibility rather than identical markers, which is why screening informative loci is emphasized.

The type of disease affecting the recipient might inform the selection of the donor and procedures involved, but it does