HLAs, or human leukocyte antigens, are a group of highly polymorphic proteins that represent the human equivalent of MHC class I and II molecules.
HLA molecules bind fragments of peptide antigens for recognition by T cells. During infection, pathogen-derived peptides are presented.
During transplantation, T cells encounter 'foreign' HLA proteins on donor cells and attack the cell. Even matched HLA molecules can present other unmatched peptides, triggering host immune response.