Reduced-dose tacrolimus with mycophenolate mofetil vs. standard-dose tacrolimus in liver transplantation: a randomized study

Management of long-term complications from immunosuppression

This review discusses long-term complications from immunosuppressants after liver transplantation and the management of these complications. Common complications of calcineurin inhibitors include nephrotoxicity and metabolic diseases. Nephrotoxicity can be managed by targeting a lower drug level and/or adding an immunosuppressant of a different class. Metabolic disorders can be managed by treating the underlying condition and targeting a lower drug level. Gastrointestinal adverse effects and myelosuppression are common complications of antimetabolites that are initially managed with dose reduction or discontinuation if adverse events persist. Mammalian targets of rapamycin inhibitors are associated with myelosuppression, proteinuria, impaired wound healing, and stomatitis, which may require dose reduction or discontinuation. Induction agents and agents used for steroid-refractory rejection or antibody-mediated rejection are reviewed. Other rare complications of immunosuppressants are discussed as well.

Therapeutic drug monitoring in kidney and liver transplantation: current advances and future directions

INTRODUCTION

Immunosuppressive drugs (ISD) present a narrow therapeutic window and extremely high inter- and intra-individual pharmacokinetic variability, which complicates their use in solid organ transplant recipients. In order to find a narrow appropriate equilibrium for each patient with the aim of maintaining clinical efficacy and reducing the risk of adverse drug reactions, a complex both clinical and biological monitoring is required, in particular through the use of therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM).

AREA COVERED

This review provides an overview of the available information on the relationship between exposure to immunosuppressive drugs and their efficacy and/or toxicity in kidney and liver transplantation. The aim of the review is to describe the pharmacodynamic/pharmacokinetic relationship that exists for immunosuppressive drugs, to summarize the studies that assess the value of TDM for these drugs in clinical practice, and to present the target and monitoring strategies aimed at optimizing patient immunosuppression, which could help to take a step forward in the field of solid organ transplant patient care.

EXPERT OPINION

To improve the care of transplant patients, several TDM innovations can be pursued by investigators. Among these, the development of microsampling methods for TDM or the combination of pharmacodynamic biomarkers with ISD exposure measurements appear to be relevant strategies.

Post Liver Transplant Renal Dysfunction-Evaluation, Management and Immunosuppressive Practice

Liver transplantation (LT) is an effective and lifesaving treatment for patients with end-stage liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma. Significant improvement in intermediate and long-term survival has been possible due to advancements in immunosuppressive therapy, perioperative care, and surgical techniques. Despite these advances, metabolic complications, including diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases, malignancies, and renal dysfunction, are challenging issues after LT. Acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) after LT are common and result in significant morbidity and mortality. Early diagnosis of kidney injury after LT is challenging, and no technique has yet proven effective in prediction of renal dysfunction. The methods for assessing renal function range from formulas that predict glomerular filtration rate to non-invasive biomarkers. The universal adoption of the model for end-stage liver disease has a direct impact on the incidence of peri-transplant AKI and development of CKD in the long-term. Post-LT renal dysfunction is multifactorial and is usually a result of pre-transplantation comorbidities, occurrence of renal dysfunction on the waiting list, perioperative events, and post-transplant nephrotoxic immunosuppressive medication use. Early identification of patients at risk for renal dysfunction and adoption of preventive measures are crucial in the pre-transplant period. No data are currently available to suggest a surgical technique that reliably demonstrates renal protection. Nephroprotective strategies during LT follow accepted surgical practice guidelines, such as maintenance of intravascular volume and mean arterial pressure. The management of kidney disease following LT is challenging, as by the time the serum creatinine is significantly elevated, few interventions impact the course of progression. Early nephroprotective measures are strongly advised and they mostly center on delaying the administration of calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) during the initial postoperative period, lowering CNI dosage and combining CNI with mycophenolate mofetil and everolimus. The reasons for renal failure following LT, the techniques used to diagnose it, and the therapies designed to preserve renal function both immediately and late after LT are all critically evaluated in this review.

Immunosuppression-Free Life after Pediatric Liver Transplant: A Case-Control Study from the Society of Pediatric Liver Transplant (SPLIT) Registry

OBJECTIVE

To compare long-term outcomes of pediatric liver transplant (LT) recipients off immunosuppression (IS) with matched controls on IS using data from the Society of Pediatric Liver Transplant (SPLIT) registry.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a retrospective case-control study. SPLIT participants <18 years of age, ≥4 years after isolated LT, and off IS for ≥1 year (cases) were age- and sex-matched 1:2 to patients with the same primary diagnosis and post-LT follow-up duration (controls). Primary outcomes included retransplantation, allograft rejection, IS comorbidities, and prevalence of SPLIT-derived composite ideal outcome (c-IO) achieved at the end of the follow-up period. Differences were compared using multiple linear regression for continuous outcomes and logistic regression for dichotomous data.

RESULTS

The study cohort was composed of 33 cases (42.4% male, 60.6% biliary atresia, median age at LT of 0.7 [P25, P75, 0.5, 1.6] years, median IS withdrawal time of 9 [P25, P75, 6, 12] years after LT) and 66 age- and sex-matched controls. No cases required retransplantation. Cases and controls had similar growth parameters, laboratory values, calculated glomerular filtration rates, rates of post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease, graft rejection, and attainment of c-IO.

CONCLUSIONS

No differences in allograft rejection rates, IS complications, or c-IO prevalence were seen between SPLIT patients off IS and age- and sex-matched controls remaining on IS. Discontinuation of IS most commonly occurred in the context of rigorously designed IS withdrawal trials. The available sample size was small, affecting generalizability to the broader pediatric LT population.

Long Term Complications of Immunosuppression Post Liver Transplant

Improvement in immunosuppression has led to a remarkable improvement in short-term and long-term outcomes post-liver transplant (LT). However, with improvements in long-term survival, complications related to immunosuppressive drugs, either directly or indirectly, have also increased. The adverse events could be drug-specific, class-specific, or generic. Calcineurin inhibitors (cyclosporine and tacrolimus) are the backbone of the immunosuppression after LT and the main culprit associated with most of the complications, including renal failure, post-transplant diabetes mellitus (PTDM), and metabolic syndrome. Steroids are also implicated in the development of diabetes, osteoporosis, and metabolic syndrome post-LT. The development of infections and de novo malignancies (DNMs) is a generic effect linked to the overall cumulative immunosuppression. The development of these complications significantly hampers the quality of life and leads to increased morbidity and mortality post-LT. Thus, it is important to minimize the cumulative immunosuppression dose while simultaneously preventing allograft rejection. This review provides up-to-date, comprehensive knowledge of the complications of long-term immunosuppression post-LT along with associated risk factors and strategies to minimize the risk of complications.

Impact of Sirolimus versus Mycophenolate Mofetil on Kidney Function after Calcineurin Inhibitor Dose Reduction in Liver Transplant Recipients

Impaired kidney function is associated with increased morbidity and mortality in patients undergoing liver transplantation. Although immunosuppressants are essential in these patients, they impair kidney function. This study aimed to compare adverse kidney outcomes between patients treated with a reduced dose of tacrolimus (calcineurin inhibitor) plus sirolimus or mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) in the liver transplant center at Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital between April 2011 and December 2017. Propensity score matching was used to identify 232 patients. The risk of adverse kidney outcomes was estimated using Cox proportional hazards regression, and changes in kidney function over time were analyzed using linear mixed modeling. Acute kidney disease risks in this study cohort were not significantly different for the two immunosuppressants (aHR 1.04; 95% CI: 0.70-1.55, p = 0.8328). However, sirolimus use was significantly associated with a higher risk of estimated glomerular filtration rate decline > 30% than MMF (aHR, 2.09; 95% CI: 1.33-3.28; p = 0.0014). Our results demonstrate that sirolimus use may have worsened long-term kidney outcomes compared to MMF. Close monitoring of kidney function, dose adjustment, and timely transition to MMF is necessary for LT patients receiving sirolimus.

Essentials of Liver Transplantation in the Setting of Acute Kidney Injury and Chronic Kidney Disease

Kidney dysfunction is common among liver transplant candidates with decompensated cirrhosis and has a major impact on pre- and post-liver transplant survival. Updated definitions of acute kidney injury and criteria for the diagnosis of hepatorenal syndrome allow for early recognition and intervention, including early initiation of vasoconstrictor therapy for hepatorenal syndrome. The rise of the metabolic syndrome and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease as a cause of cirrhosis has coincided with an increase in intrinsic chronic kidney disease recognized in transplant candidates and recipients. Ultimately, the ability to accurately assess kidney function and associated risk is essential to decision-making in the context of transplantation, including selection of candidates for simultaneous liver and kidney transplantation.

Liver transplantation immunology: Immunosuppression, rejection, and immunomodulation

Outcomes after liver transplantation have continuously improved over the past decades, but long-term survival rates are still lower than in the general population. The liver has distinct immunological functions linked to its unique anatomical configuration and to its harbouring of a large number of cells with fundamental immunological roles. The transplanted liver can modulate the immunological system of the recipient to promote tolerance, thus offering the potential for less aggressive immunosuppression. The selection and adjustment of immunosuppressive drugs should be individualised to optimally control alloreactivity while mitigating toxicities. Routine laboratory tests are not accurate enough to make a confident diagnosis of allograft rejection. Although several promising biomarkers are being investigated, none of them is sufficiently validated for routine use; hence, liver biopsy remains necessary to guide clinical decisions. Recently, there has been an exponential increase in the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors due to the unquestionable oncological benefits they provide for many patients with advanced-stage tumours. It is expected that their use will also increase in liver transplant recipients and that this might affect the incidence of allograft rejection. Currently, the evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of immune checkpoint inhibitors in liver transplant recipients is limited and cases of severe allograft rejection have been reported. In this review, we discuss the clinical relevance of alloimmune disease, the role of minimisation/withdrawal of immunosuppression, and provide practical guidance for using checkpoint inhibitors in liver transplant recipients.

Prenatal Exposition to Different Immunosuppressive Protocols Results in Vacuolar Degeneration of Hepatocytes

Immunosuppressive drugs are essential for transplant recipients, since they prolong proper function of graft; however, they affect the morphology and function of organs, including liver. One commonly observed alteration in hepatocytes is vacuolar degeneration. Numerous medications are contraindicated in pregnancy and breastfeeding, mostly due to a lack of data concerning their advert effects. The aim of the current study was to compare the effects of prenatal exposition to different protocols of immunosuppressants on vacuolar degeneration in the hepatocytes of livers of rats. Thirty-two livers of rats with usage of digital analysis of the images were examined. Area, perimeter, axis length, eccentricity and circularity regarding vacuolar degeneration were analysed. The most prominent vacuolar degeneration in hepatocytes in the aspects of presence, area and perimeter was observed in rats exposed to tacrolimus, mycophenolate mofetil and glucocorticoids, and cyclosporine A, everolimus with glucocorticoids.This is the first study that demonstrates the results of the influence of multidrug immnunosuppression distributed in utero on the hepatic tissue of offspring.

Long-term renal outcomes comparison between patients with chronic kidney disease and hepatorenal syndrome after living donor liver transplantation

Background and aims

Hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) is a disastrous renal complication of advanced liver disease with a poor prognosis. Restoring normal liver function through liver transplantation (LT) is a standardized treatment with favorable short-term survival. However, the long-term renal outcomes in patients with HRS receiving living donor LT (LDLT) are controversial. This study aimed to investigate the prognostic impact of LDLT in patients with HRS.

Methods

We reviewed adult patients who underwent LDLT between July 2008 and September 2017. Recipients were classified into 1) HRS type 1 (HRS1, N = 11), 2) HRS type 2 (HRS2, N = 19), 3) non-HRS recipients with pre-existing chronic kidney disease (CKD, N = 43), and 4) matched normal renal function (N = 67).

Results

Postoperative complications and 30-day surgical mortality were comparable among the HRS1, HRS2, CKD, and normal renal function groups. The 5-year survival rate was &gt;90% and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) transiently improved and peaked at 4 weeks post-transplantation in patients with HRS. However, renal function deteriorated and resulted in CKD stage ≥ III in 72.7% of HRS1 and 78.9% of HRS2 patients (eGFR &lt;60 ml/min/1.73 m2). The incidence of developing CKD and end-stage renal disease (ESRD) was similar between the HRS1, HRS2, and CKD groups, but significantly higher than that in the normal renal function group (both P &lt; 0.001). In multivariate logistic regression, pre-LDLT eGFR &lt;46.4 ml/min/1.73 m2 predicted the development of post-LDLT CKD stage ≥ III in patients with HRS (AUC = 0.807, 95% CI = 0.617–0.997, P = 0.011).

Conclusions

LDLT provides a significant survival benefit for patients with HRS. However, the risk of CKD stage ≥ III and ESRD among patients with HRS was similar to that in pre-transplant CKD recipients. An early preventative renal-sparing strategy in patients with HRS is recommended.

A Multicenter, Randomized, Open-Label Study to Compare the Efficacy and Safety of Tacrolimus and Corticosteroids in Combination With or Without Mycophenolate Mofetil in Liver Transplantation Recipients Infected With Hepatitis B Virus

BACKGROUND

Mycophenolate mofetil exhibits pharmacologic mechanisms different from calcineurin inhibitors. Therefore, the dose of calcineurin inhibitors can be reduced along with side effects for effective immunosuppression. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of tacrolimus and corticosteroid in combination with or without mycophenolate mofetil in living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) recipients infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV).

METHODS

A randomized, open-label, comparative, multicenter, phase IV study was conducted with 119 patients from January 2014 to September 2017. In the full analysis set population, 58 and 59 patients were included in the study group (triple-drug regimen: TacroBell + My-rept + corticosteroid) and the control group (dual-drug regimen: TacroBell + corticosteroid), respectively. In the per protocol set population, 49 and 42 patients were included in the study and control groups, respectively.

RESULTS

In the full analysis set population, the incidence of biopsy-proven acute cellular rejection (rejection activity index score ≥4) was 3.4% in the study group; however, this finding was not observed in the control group (P = .468). Hepatitis B virus recurrence was observed in one patient in the control group. No cases of biopsy-proven acute cellular rejection and HBV recurrence were observed in the per protocol set population. The incidences of serious adverse events were 25.9% and 18.0% in the study and control groups, respectively; however, the difference between the groups was not statistically significant (P = .376).

CONCLUSION

Although the study involved a small number of patients, the triple-drug regimen can be considered safe and effective for immunosuppression after living donor liver transplantation in patients infected with HBV.

The optimal immunosuppression management to prevent early rejection after liver transplantation: A systematic review of the literature and expert panel recommendations

BACKGROUND

The optimal immunosuppression protocol to prevent early acute cellular rejection (ACR) after liver transplantation (LT) avoiding prolonged hospitalization and early hospital readmission is undefined.

OBJECTIVES

To identify the most suitable immunosuppression regimen for inclusion in ERAS programs in order to minimize early ACR after LT and to provide expert panel recommendations DATA SOURCES: Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Central.

METHODS

Systematic review following PRISMA guidelines and recommendations using the GRADE approach derived from an international expert panel. Studies from January 2000 onward focusing on early ACR were included. Rates of early renal dysfunction and infection were evaluated. CRD42021245586 RESULTS: Thirty-seven studies met inclusion criteria; 23 randomized controlled trials, 14 retrospective or prospective observational comparative or noncomparative studies. Several sources of biases which potentially confound conclusions were identified: heterogeneity in immunosuppression protocols, higher serum tacrolimus levels than currently used in clinical practice, differences in the definition of ACR.

CONCLUSIONS

Tacrolimus is the standard immunosuppression after LT and can be used in combination with other drugs such as corticosteroids and MMF, and in association with anti-IL2 receptor antibody (IL2Ra) induction. (Quality of Evidence; Low | Grade of Recommendation; Strong). Low dose or delayed introduction of tacrolimus in association with corticosteroids and MMF and/or anti-IL2Ra induction can be used to reduce acute kidney injury. (Quality of Evidence; Low | Grade of Recommendation; Strong). Use of tacrolimus in association with corticosteroids and MMF and/or anti-IL2Ra induction does not lead to increased infection rates. (Quality of Evidence; Low | Grade of Recommendation; Weak).

Safety of Tacrolimus Monotherapy within 12 Months after Liver Transplantation in the Era of Reduced Tacrolimus and Mycophenolate Mofetil: National Registry Study

Tacrolimus monotherapy is accepted as a feasible option during early post-liver transplantation as per current international consensus guidelines. However, its effects in the recent era of reduced tacrolimus (TAC) and mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) remain unclear. Liver recipients who either received TAC monotherapy from the treatment onset or switched from TAC/MMF to TAC-mono within 12 months (TAC-mono group; n = 991) were chronologically matched to patients who continued to receive TAC/MMF (TAC/MMF group; n = 991) at the corresponding time points on time-conditional propensity scores. Outcomes within 12 months after matched time points were compared. Biopsy-proven rejection (TAC/MMF: 3.5% vs. TAC-mono: 2.6%; p = 0.381) and graft failure (0.2% vs. 0.7%; p = 0.082) were similar in both groups. However, the decline in eGFR was 3.1 mL/min/1.73 m² (95% CI: 0.8–5.3) greater at six months (p = 0.008) and 2.4 mL/min/1.73 m² (95% CI: −0.05–4.9) greater at 12 months (p = 0.048) after the matched time points in TAC-mono group than that in TAC/MMF group. TAC trough levels were also higher in the TAC-mono group throughout the study period. TAC-mono within 12 months after liver transplantation is immunologically safe. However, it can increase the required TAC dose and the decline in renal function than that in TAC/MMF combination therapy.

The pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus in peripheral blood mononuclear cells and limited sampling strategy for estimation of exposure in renal transplant recipients

PURPOSE

Intracellular exposure of tacrolimus (TAC) may be a better marker of therapeutic effect than whole blood exposure. We aimed to evaluate the influence of genetic polymorphism on the pharmacokinetics of TAC in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and develop limited sampling strategy (LSS) models to estimate the area under the curve (AUC_0-12h) in the PBMC of Chinese renal transplant patients.

METHODS

Ten blood samples of each of the 23 renal transplant patients were collected 0-12h after 14 (10-18) days of TAC administration. PBMCs were separated and quantified. The TAC level in PBMCs was determined, and pharmacokinetic parameters were estimated by noncompartmental study. The AUC_0-12h of TAC in whole blood was estimated by Bayesian approach based on a population pharmacokinetic model established in 65 renal transplant patients. The influence of CYP3A5 and ABCB1 genotypes on exposure was estimated. By applying multiple stepwise linear regression analysis, LSS equations for TAC AUC_0-12h in the PMBC of renal transplant patients were established, and the bias and precision of various equations were identified and compared.

RESULTS

We found a modest correlation between TAC exposure in whole blood and PBMC (r² = 0.5260). Patients with the CYP3A5 6986GG genotype had a higher AUC_0-12h in PBMCs than those with the 6986 AA or GA genotype (P = 0.026). Conversely, patients with the ABCB1 3435TT genotype had a higher AUC_0-12h in PBMC than those with the 3435 CC and CT genotypes (P = 0.046). LSS models with 1-4 blood time points were established (r² = 0.570-0.989). The best model for predicting TAC AUC_0-12h was C₂-C₄-C₆-C₁₀ (r² = 0.989). The model with C_0.5-C₆ (r² = 0.849) can be used for outpatients who need monitoring to be performed in a short period.

CONCLUSIONS

The CYP3A5 and ABCB1 genotypes impact TAC exposure in PBMCs, which may further alter the effects of TAC. The LSS model consisting of 2-4 time points is an effective approach for estimating full TAC AUC_0-12h in Chinese renal transplant patients. This approach may provide convenience and the possibility for clinical monitoring of TAC intracellular exposure.

[Kidney failure after liver transplantation]

One third of cirrhotic patients present impaired kidney function. It has multifactorial causes and has a harmful effect on patients' morbi-mortality before and after liver transplant. Kidney function does not improve in all patients after liver transplantation and liver-transplant recipients are at high risk of developing chronic kidney disease. Causes for renal dysfunction can be divided in three groups: preoperative, peroperative and postoperative factors. To date, there is no consensus for the modality of evaluation the risk for chronic kidney disease after liver transplantation, and for its prevention. In the present review, we describe the outcome of kidney function after liver transplantation, and the prognostic factors of chronic kidney disease to determine a risk stratification for each patient. Furthermore, we discuss therapeutic options to prevent kidney dysfunction in this setting, and highlight the indications of combined liver-kidney transplantation.

Current aspects of renal dysfunction after liver transplantation

The development of chronic kidney disease (CKD) after liver transplantation (LT) exerts a severe effect on the survival of patients. The widespread adoption of the model for end-stage liver disease score strongly impacted CKD incidence after the procedure, as several patients are transplanted with previously deteriorated renal function. Due to its multifactorial nature, encompassing pre-transplantation conditions, perioperative events, and nephrotoxic immunosuppressor therapies, the accurate identification of patients under risk of renal disease, and the implementation of preventive approaches, are extremely important. Methods for the evaluation of renal function in this setting range from formulas that estimate the glomerular filtration rate, to non-invasive markers, although no option has yet proved efficient in early detection of kidney injury. Considering the nephrotoxicity of calcineurin inhibitors (CNI) as a factor of utmost importance after LT, early nephroprotective strategies are highly recommended. They are based mainly on delaying the application of CNI during the immediate postoperative-period, reducing their dosage, and associating them with other less nephrotoxic drugs, such as mycophenolate mofetil and everolimus. This review provides a critical assessment of the causes of renal dysfunction after LT, the methods of its evaluation, and the interventions aimed at preserving renal function early and belatedly after LT.

Post-Liver Transplant Acute Kidney Injury

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common condition following liver transplantation (LT). It negatively impacts patient outcomes by increasing the chances of developing chronic kidney disease and reducing graft and patient survival rates. Multiple definitions of AKI have been proposed and used throughout the years, with the International Club of Ascites definition being the most widely now used for patients with cirrhosis. Multiple factors are associated with the development of post-LT AKI and can be categorized into pre-LT comorbidities, donor and recipient characteristics, operative factors, and post-LT factors. Many of these factors can be optimized in an attempt to minimize the risk of AKI occurring and to improve renal function if AKI is already present. A special consideration during the post-LT phase is needed for immunosuppression as certain immunosuppressive medications can be nephrotoxic. The calcineurin inhibitor tacrolimus (TAC) is the mainstay of immunosuppression but can result in AKI. Several strategies including use of the monoclonoal antibody basilixamab to allow for delayed initiation of tacrolimus therapy and minimization through combination and minimization or elimination of TAC through combination with mycophenolate mofetil or mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors have been implemented to reverse and avoid AKI in the post-LT setting. Renal replacement therapy may ultimately be required to support patients until recovery of AKI after LT. Overall, by improving renal function in post-LT patients with AKI, outcomes can be improved.

Kidney Failure after Liver Transplantation

One-third of patients with cirrhosis present kidney failure (AKI and CKD). It has multifactorial causes and a harmful effect on morbidity and mortality before and after liver transplantation. Kidney function does not improve in all patients after liver transplantation, and liver transplant recipients are at a high risk of developing chronic kidney disease. The causes of renal dysfunction can be divided into three groups: pre-operative, perioperative and post-operative factors. To date, there is no consensus on the modality to evaluate the risk of chronic kidney disease after liver transplantation, or for its prevention. In this narrative review, we describe the outcome of kidney function after liver transplantation, and the prognostic factors of chronic kidney disease in order to establish a risk categorization for each patient. Furthermore, we discuss therapeutic options to prevent kidney dysfunction in this context, and highlight the indications of combined liver–kidney transplantation.

Measuring Intracellular Concentrations of Calcineurin Inhibitors: Expert Consensus from the International Association of Therapeutic Drug Monitoring and Clinical Toxicology Expert Panel

BACKGROUND

Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) of the 2 calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs), tacrolimus (TAC) and cyclosporin A, has resulted in improvements in the management of patients who have undergone solid organ transplantation. As a result of TDM, acute rejection (AR) rates and treatment-related toxicities have been reduced. Irrespective, AR and toxicity still occur in patients who have undergone transplantation, showing blood CNI concentrations within the therapeutic range. Moreover, the AR rate is no longer decreasing. Hence, smarter TDM approaches are necessary. Because CNIs exert their action inside T lymphocytes, intracellular CNIs may be a promising candidate for improving therapeutic outcomes. The intracellular CNI concentration may be more directly related to the drug effect and has been favorably compared with the standard, whole-blood TDM for TAC in liver transplant recipients. However, measuring intracellular CNIs concentrations is not without pitfalls at both the preanalytical and analytical stages, and standardization seems essential in this area. To date, there are no guidelines for the TDM of intracellular CNI concentrations.

METHODS

Under the auspices of the International Association of TDM and Clinical Toxicology and its Immunosuppressive Drug committees, a group of leading investigators in this field have shared experiences and have presented preanalytical and analytical recommendations for measuring intracellular CNI concentrations.

Personalized Therapy for Mycophenolate: Consensus Report by the International Association of Therapeutic Drug Monitoring and Clinical Toxicology

ABSTRACT

When mycophenolic acid (MPA) was originally marketed for immunosuppressive therapy, fixed doses were recommended by the manufacturer. Awareness of the potential for a more personalized dosing has led to development of methods to estimate MPA area under the curve based on the measurement of drug concentrations in only a few samples. This approach is feasible in the clinical routine and has proven successful in terms of correlation with outcome. However, the search for superior correlates has continued, and numerous studies in search of biomarkers that could better predict the perfect dosage for the individual patient have been published. As it was considered timely for an updated and comprehensive presentation of consensus on the status for personalized treatment with MPA, this report was prepared following an initiative from members of the International Association of Therapeutic Drug Monitoring and Clinical Toxicology (IATDMCT). Topics included are the criteria for analytics, methods to estimate exposure including pharmacometrics, the potential influence of pharmacogenetics, development of biomarkers, and the practical aspects of implementation of target concentration intervention. For selected topics with sufficient evidence, such as the application of limited sampling strategies for MPA area under the curve, graded recommendations on target ranges are presented. To provide a comprehensive review, this report also includes updates on the status of potential biomarkers including those which may be promising but with a low level of evidence. In view of the fact that there are very few new immunosuppressive drugs under development for the transplant field, it is likely that MPA will continue to be prescribed on a large scale in the upcoming years. Discontinuation of therapy due to adverse effects is relatively common, increasing the risk for late rejections, which may contribute to graft loss. Therefore, the continued search for innovative methods to better personalize MPA dosage is warranted.

Early tacrolimus exposure does not impact long-term outcomes after liver transplantation

BACKGROUND

Tacrolimus trough levels (TTL) during the first weeks after liver transplantation (LT) have been related with long-term renal function and hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence. Nevertheless, the significance of trough levels of tacrolimus during the early post-transplant period for the long-term outcome is under debate

AIM

To evaluate the effect of TTL during the first month on the long-term outcomes after LT.

METHODS

One hundred fifty-five LT recipients treated de novo with once-daily tacrolimus were retrospectively studied. Patients with repeated LT or combined transplantation were excluded as well as those who presented renal dysfunction prior to transplantation and/or those who needed induction therapy. Patients were classified into 2 groups according to their mean TTL within the first month after transplantation: ≤ 10 (n = 98) and > 10 ng/mL (n = 57). Multivariate analyses were performed to assess risk factors for patient mortality.

RESULTS

Mean levels within the first month post-transplant were 7.4 ± 1.7 and 12.6 ± 2.2 ng/mL in the ≤ 10 and > 10 groups, respectively. Donor age was higher in the high TTL group 62.9 ± 16.8 years vs 45.7 ± 17.5 years (P = 0.002) whilst mycophenolate-mofetil was more frequently used in the low TTL group 32.7% vs 15.8% (P = 0.02). Recipient features were generally similar across groups. After a median follow-up of 52.8 mo (range 2.8-81.1), no significant differences were observed in: Mean estimated glomerular filtration rate (P = 0.69), hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence (P = 0.44), de novo tumors (P = 0.77), new-onset diabetes (P = 0.13), or biopsy-proven acute rejection rate (12.2% and 8.8%, respectively; P = 0.50). Eighteen patients died during the follow-up and were evenly distributed across groups (P = 0.83). Five-year patient survival was 90.5% and 84.9%, respectively (P = 0.44), while 5-year graft survival was 88.2% and 80.8%, respectively (P = 0.42). Early TTL was not an independent factor for patient mortality in multivariate analyses.

CONCLUSION

Differences in tacrolimus levels restricted to the first month after transplant did not result in significant differences in long-term outcomes of LT recipients.

Long-Term Tacrolimus Blood Trough Level and Patient Survival in Adult Liver Transplantation

Tacrolimus is the most widely used immunosuppressant in liver transplant (LT) patients. However, the ideal long-term target level for these patients is unknown. This retrospective study aimed to investigate the impact of tacrolimus blood concentration five years after LT on long-term patient survival outcomes in adult LT recipients. Patients who underwent LT between January 2004 and July 2014 at a tertiary medical center were included in this study (n = 189). The mean tacrolimus blood concentrations of each patient during the fifth year after LT were recorded and the overall survival rate was determined. A multivariate analysis of factors associated with long-term survival was conducted using a Cox’s model. The median follow-up period was 9.63 years, and 144 patients (76.2%) underwent live donor LT. Sixteen patients died within 5 years of LT. In the Cox’s model, patients with a mean tacrolimus blood trough level of 4.6–10.2 ng/mL had significantly better long-term survival than those with a mean tacrolimus blood trough level outside this range (estimated hazard ratio = 4.76; 95% confidence interval: 1.34–16.9, p = 0.016). Therefore, a tacrolimus level no lower than 4.6 ng/mL would be recommended in adult LT patients.

Regulatory T Cell Therapy Following Liver Transplantation

Liver transplantation (LT) is considered the gold standard of curative treatment for patients with end-stage liver disease or nonresectable hepatic malignant tumors. Rejection after LT is the main nontechnical factor affecting the prognosis of recipients. Medical and surgical advances, combined with improved immunosuppression with drugs such as calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs), have contributed to an increase in 1-year graft survival to around 80%. However, medium- and long-term improvements in LT outcomes have lagged behind. Importantly, CNIs and other classical immunosuppressive drugs are associated with significant adverse effects, including malignancies, cardiovascular disease, and severe renal dysfunction. Immunomodulation using regulatory T cells (Tregs) is emerging as a promising alternative to classical immunosuppression. Since their discovery, the immunomodulatory effects of Tregs have been demonstrated in a range of diseases. This has rejuvenated the interest in using Tregs as a therapeutic strategy to induce immune tolerance after LT. In this review, we first summarize the discovery and development of Tregs. We then review the preclinical data supporting their production, mechanism of action, and therapeutic efficacy followed by a summary of relevant clinical trials. Finally, we discuss the outstanding challenges of Treg therapy and its future prospects for routine use in LT.

Incidence and Risk Factors for Fatal Graft-versus-host Disease After Liver Transplantation

BACKGROUND

Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) after liver transplantation (LT) is a rare but serious complication. The aim of this study is to identify risk factors, including immunosuppressive regimens, for mortality due to GVHD (fatal GVHD).

METHODS

Using data from the OPTN/UNOS registry, 77,416 adult patients who underwent LT between 2003 and 2018 were assessed. Risk factors for fatal GVHD were analyzed by focusing on induction and maintenance immunosuppression regimens.

RESULTS

The incidence of fatal GVHD was 0.2% (121/77,416), of whom 105 (87%) died within 180 days and 13 (11%) died between 181 days and 1 year. Median survival after LT was 68.0 (49.5-125.5) days. Recipient age minus donor age greater than 20 years (HR 2.57, P<0.001) and basiliximab induction (HR 1.69, P=0.018) were independent risk factors for fatal GVHD. Maintenance therapy with mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) was associated with a decrease in fatal GVHD (HR 0.51, P=0.001). In an increased risk cohort of patients with recipient-donor age discrepancy greater than 20 years, MMF use was associated with a 50% decline in fatal GVHD (HR 0.50, P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Recipient age minus donor age greater than 20 years remains a significant risk factor for fatal GVHD. The risk of fatal GVHD significantly increases in association with basiliximab induction and decreases with MMF maintenance. These associations were pronounced in patients with recipient minus donor age greater than 20 years. These results emphasize the importance of donor age and individualized immunosuppression regimens on the risk of fatal GVHD.

Safety and effectiveness of mycophenolate mofetil associated with tacrolimus for liver transplantation immunosuppression: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

A combination of immunosuppressants may improve outcomes due to the synergistic effect of their different action mechanisms. Currently, there is no consensus regarding the best immunosuppressive protocol after liver transplantation. This review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of tacrolimus associated with mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) in patients undergoing liver transplantation. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. Eight randomized trials were included. The proportion of patients with at least one adverse event related to the immunosuppression scheme with tacrolimus associated with MMF was 39.9%. The tacrolimus with MMF immunosuppression regimen was superior in preventing acute cellular rejection compared with that of tacrolimus alone (risk difference [RD]=-0.11; p =0.001). The tacrolimus plus MMF regimen showed no difference in the risk of adverse events compared to that of tacrolimus alone (RD=0.7; p=0.66) and cyclosporine plus MMF (RD=-0.7; p=0.37). Patients undergoing liver transplantation who received tacrolimus plus MMF had similar adverse events when compared to patients receiving other evaluated immunosuppressive regimens and had a lower risk of acute rejection than those receiving in the monodrug tacrolimus regimen.

Exploring Reference Values for Hair Cortisol: Hair Weight Versus Hair Protein

BACKGROUND

As a marker of cumulative cortisol activity, hair cortisol has received attention in clinical and methodological research. Currently, it is a common practice to relate the hair cortisol concentration (HCC) to hair weight. This article explores the hair protein concentration (HPC) as another possible reference value for HCC.

METHODS

For n = 18 hair samples cut from the posterior vertex, the HCC, HPC, and hair sample weight were determined, and the cortisol-to-weight and cortisol-to-protein ratios were calculated. Correlations were analyzed between the HCC, HPC, and hair sample weight as well as between the cortisol-to-weight and cortisol-to-protein ratios. Hair sample weight and HPC were included as independent variables in a stepwise linear regression model to predict HCC.

RESULTS

The HCC and HPC did not correlate significantly (r = 0.393, P = 0.106); however, the correlation between HCC and hair sample weight was significant (r = 0.520, P = 0.027). The HPC and hair sample weight (r = 0.605, P = 0.008) as well as the cortisol-to-weight and cortisol-to-protein ratios (r = 0.858, P < 0.000) showed a high correlation. The hair sample weight was the better predictor of the HCC (β = 0.520, P = 0.027) than HPC (β = 0.125, P = 0.657).

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicate that the hair sample weight is the more suitable reference value for the HCC. Thus, the standard cortisol-to-weight ratio should be used as the preferred expression for the cumulative cortisol activity measured in the scalp hair. However, calculating the cortisol-to-protein ratio can be considered as an alternative if the hair sample weight is not available.

Incidence, Predictors, and Impact on Survival of Long-term Cardiovascular Events After Liver Transplantation

BACKGROUND

Information on the risk factors, particularly kidney function, and impact of long-term cardiovascular events (CVE) after liver transplantation (LT) remains scarce.

METHODS

This is a retrospective, single-center study that included consecutive LT recipients between 2007 and 2017. The incidence of CVE, their risk factors, and their impact on patient survival were investigated.

RESULTS

We included 627 LT recipients. The incidence of CVE was 8% and 20% at 12 and 60 months after LT, respectively. The independent risk factors of long-term (beyond 12 mo) CVE were age at LT (hazard ratio [HR], 1.04; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01-1.07), male gender (HR, 2.48; 95% CI, 1.21-5.05), history of pre-LT cardiovascular disease (HR, 2.19; 95% CI, 1.2-3.98), and immunosuppression with cyclosporine A (HR, 1.93; 95% CI, 1.14-3.3). In patients with pre-LT cardiovascular disease, creatinine levels 12 months after LT significantly impacted the risk of long-term CVE. Long-term CVE (HR, 2.12; 95% CI, 1.24-3.61), hepatitis C as the etiology of liver disease (HR, 2.18; 95% CI, 1.29-3.67), cytomegalovirus infection (HR, 1.89; 95% CI, 1.08-3.3), and donor age (HR, 1.02; 95% CI, 1.01-1.04) were independent factors associated with post-LT patient death.

CONCLUSIONS

Age, male gender, cardiovascular disease before LT, and cyclosporine A were associated with the risk of long-term CVE. The impact of serum creatinine was restricted to patients with pre-LT cardiovascular disease. In these patients, preservation of kidney function early after LT may lessen the incidence of CVE, which are an independent predictor of post-LT death.

Impact of Induction Immunosuppression Strategies in Simultaneous Liver/Kidney Transplantation

BACKGROUND

There is scant data on the use of induction immunosuppression for simultaneous liver/kidney transplantation (SLKT).

METHODS

We analyzed the Organ Procurement and Transplant Network registry from 1996 to 2016 to compare outcomes of SLKT, based on induction immunosuppression.

RESULTS

Of 5172 patients, 941 (18%) received T-cell depletion induction, 1635 (32%) received interleukin 2 receptor antagonist (IL2-RA), and 2596 (50%) received no induction (NI). At 5 years, patient survivals were 68% in the T-cell group, 74% in the IL2-RA group, and 71% in the NI group (P = 0.0006). Five-year liver and kidney allograft survivals were 67% and 64% in the T-cell group, 73% and 70% in the IL2-RA group, and 70% and 68% in the NI group (P = 0.001 and 0.003), respectively. On multivariate analysis, the type of induction had no impact on patient or allograft survival. Maintenance steroids and calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) at discharge were associated with improved patient and graft survival (steroids: patient survival hazard ratio [HR] 0.37 [0.27-0.52], liver survival HR 0.43 [0.31-0.59], kidney survival HR 0.46 [0.34-0.63]; P < 0.0001, CNI: patient survival HR 0.3 [0.21-0.43], liver survival HR 0.3 [0.2-0.44], kidney survival HR 0.4 [0.26-0.59]; P < 0.0001). CNI maintenance in patients who received T-cell induction was associated with decreased patient, liver, and kidney allograft survivals (respective HR: 1.4 [1.1, 1.8]; 1.5 [1.1, 1.9]; 1.3 [1.08, 1.7]; P < 0.05) CONCLUSION.: Induction immunosuppression had no impact on patient and allograft survival in SLKT, while maintenance steroids and CNI were associated with improved patient and graft survivals. Given the inherent limitations of a registry analysis, these findings should be interpreted with caution.

Renal disease in the allograft recipient

Chronic renal failure after liver transplantation (LT) is significantly more frequent than after lung or heart transplantation and it results in an increased short and long-term mortality. Renal impairment may occur before LT (functional or due to preexisting parenchymal kidney disease), in the peri-operative period or later after LT. The number of patients with renal failure after LT has increased due to the liver allocation based on MELD and to the more liberal use of higher risk grafts. Calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) nephrotoxicity is the most important cause of renal dysfunction but is a modifiable factor. Strategy to prevent CNI-associated nephrotoxicity is post-op CNI minimization by induction therapy and reduced dose and/or delayed introduction of CNI in combination with mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) or everolimus with no penalty in term of rejection. With everolimus, usually started one month after LT, a drastic minimization of CNI is possible and this results in superior kidney function until at least 3 years follow up. At the moment of renal impairment a drastic reduction of CNI dose together with the introduction of MMF results in an improvement in GFR at 6 to 2 years with a low rate of acute rejection. However, secondary prevention fails to normalize renal function in most of the patients once e GFR <60 ml/min/1.73m²ml.

Immunosuppression in liver transplant

The increasing potency of immunosuppression (IS) agents resulted in significantly decreased rates of steroid resistant rejection and rejection related graft loss in liver transplantation (LT). Currently, more than two thirds of late mortality after LT is unrelated to graft function. However, the increased benefit of more potent IS drugs, coupled with the prolonged survival of transplant recipients led to longer patients exposure to these drugs and their unwanted adverse effects, creating a double-edged sword. In this article the authors describe the mechanism of action and the adverse effects of the most commonly used immunosuppressed drugs, and the most commonly used IS regimens for both induction and maintenance regimens. The balance between the ideal IS regimen to prevent rejection and the need to minimize the dose of IS drugs in order to prevent the adverse effects related to its use requires the knowledge of the science and the experience with the art of medicine. The different protocols aimed at protecting renal function and preventing the development of de novo cancer and metabolic syndrome are discussed here. The main causes of mortality late after liver transplant are associated with prolonged use of IS medications, and clear evidence exists about over-immunosuppression of recipients of liver transplant. The current status of strategies of IS minimization and withdrawal are reviewed in this article, with evaluation of its benefits and pitfalls.

Establishment of a Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry Method for the Determination of Immunosuppressant Levels in the Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells of Chinese Renal Transplant Recipients

BACKGROUND

Monitoring immunosuppressant levels, such as mycophenolic acid (MPA), cyclosporin A (CsA), and tacrolimus (TAC), in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) could be useful in organ transplant patients administered individualized therapy. The authors developed a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry assay technique to simultaneously determine immunosuppressant levels in PBMCs and assess their pharmacokinetics in Chinese renal allograft recipients.

METHODS

PBMCs were isolated from the whole blood of 27 Chinese renal transplant patients using Ficoll-Paque Plus solution, and cell number was determined; acetonitrile treatment for protein precipitation, and gradient elution was performed on an Agilent Eclipse XDB-C18 column (3.5 μm, 2.1 × 100 mm) with mobile phase: water and methanol (containing 2 mM ammonium formate); flow rate: 0.3 mL·min.

RESULTS

The calibration curves of MPA, CsA, and TAC had a linear range (ng·mL): 0.098-39.2 (r = 0.9987), 0.255-102 (r = 0.9969), and 0.028-11.2 (r = 0.9993), respectively. The extraction effects, matrix effects, and mean relative recovery of these immunosuppressants were 70.4%-93.2%, 72.7%-96.5%, and 90.1%-112.4%, respectively. The within-day and between-day coefficients of variation were <15%. The AUC0-12 of MPA in PBMCs correlated well with those in plasma. The level of MPA, CsA, and TAC in PBMCs might be more stable during dosing interval.

CONCLUSIONS

The derived liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry assay is suitable for simultaneously monitoring different immunosuppressants in PBMCs. Pharmacokinetic of MPA, CsA, and TAC displayed considerable interindividual variability. Intracellular monitoring of immunosuppressants may facilitate individualized therapy for renal allograft recipients.

Management of Hepatorenal Syndrome: A Review

Acute kidney injury (AKI) occurs frequently in patients with cirrhosis, and hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) is second most common etiology of AKI after volume responsible pre-renal etiology. AKI in these patients negatively impacts pre- and post-transplant patient survival and healthcare burden. Reduced effective blood volume with consequent reduced renal blood flow, along with systemic inflammation in patients with decompensated cirrhosis, result in susceptibility to HRS. In this article, we will review updates over the last 5 years on the changing definition with diagnostic criteria and nomenclature of AKI and HRS, data on medical treatment with vasoconstrictors, and urinary biomarkers in diagnosis of etiology of AKI. We will also discuss the significance of liver transplantation evaluation once the diagnosis of HRS is established and the post-transplant immunosuppression management. We will also review one of the challenging issues that remains among transplant-eligible patients, that of allocation of simultaneous liver kidney transplant. Finally, we will review the new implemented policy from the Organ Procurement Transplant Network on simultaneous liver kidney allocation.

Impact of a targeted monitoring on data-quality and data-management workload of randomized controlled trials: A prospective comparative study

AIMS

Monitoring risk-based approaches in clinical trials are encouraged by regulatory guidance. However, the impact of a targeted source data verification (SDV) on data-management (DM) workload and on final data quality needs to be addressed.

METHODS

MONITORING was a prospective study aiming at comparing full SDV (100% of data verified for all patients) and targeted SDV (only key data verified for all patients) followed by the same DM program (detecting missing data and checking consistency) on final data quality, global workload and staffing costs.

RESULTS

In all, 137 008 data including 18 124 key data were collected for 126 patients from 6 clinical trials. Compared to the final database obtained using the full SDV monitoring process, the final database obtained using the targeted SDV monitoring process had a residual error rate of 1.47% (95% confidence interval, 1.41-1.53%) on overall data and 0.78% (95% confidence interval, 0.65-0.91%) on key data. There were nearly 4 times more queries per study with targeted SDV than with full SDV (mean ± standard deviation: 132 ± 101 vs 34 ± 26; P = .03). For a handling time of 15 minutes per query, the global workload of the targeted SDV monitoring strategy remained below that of the full SDV monitoring strategy. From 25 minutes per query it was above, increasing progressively to represent a 50% increase for 45 minutes per query.

CONCLUSION

Targeted SDV monitoring is accompanied by increased workload for DM, which allows to obtain a small proportion of remaining errors on key data (<1%), but may substantially increase trial costs.

Tacrolimus exposure after liver transplantation for alcohol-related liver disease: Impact on complications

BACKGROUND

Alcohol-related liver disease (ALD) is one of the main indications for liver transplantation (LT). For 20 years, tacrolimus (Tac) is the cornerstone immunosuppressive drug used after LT and is very efficient for the prevention of rejection. Nevertheless, the major drawback of long-term use of Tac is the risk for developing dose-dependent adverse effects.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the present study was to assess the impact of Tac exposure (trough concentrations and concentration/dose (C/D) ratio) during the first year after LT, on short- and long-term complications after LT for ALD.

METHODS

All patients who underwent a LT for ALD at Lyon Edouard Herriot Hospital from October 1990 to September 2010, and who were treated with Tac for at least one year after LT, were analyzed.

RESULTS

The study population consisted in 251 patients, mean age 53.4 ± 7.3 years, and followed during 11.6 ± 4.8 years. Post-LT complications included severe infectious events (44.6%), malignancies (41.4%), arterial hypertension (49.4%) dyslipidemia (44.2%), diabetes (18.7%) and cardiovascular events (15.5%). De novo hypertension, cardiovascular event, CMV infection, non-melanoma skin cancers and HCC recurrence after transplantation were significantly associated with higher Tac trough blood concentration. In addition, Tac fast-metabolizers (defined as C/D < 1.8) had significantly more impaired renal function at 1, 5, and 10 years and more cardiovascular events, PTLD, diabetes and hypertension than slow-metabolizers.

CONCLUSION

Our results strongly support that, in addition to blood trough concentrations, Tac metabolism, as estimated by the simple C/D ratio, could be an efficient parameter in daily practice to identify LT patients at risk to develop long term general complications of Tac.

A randomized trial of everolimus-based quadruple therapy vs standard triple therapy early after lung transplantation

Calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) therapy after lung transplantation increases risk of kidney failure. Early everolimus-based quadruple low CNI immunosuppression may improve renal function without compromising efficacy or safety. A prospective, randomized, open-label, 12-month multicenter trial was conducted at 8 German sites. Patients 3-18 months after lung transplantation were randomized (1:1), stratified by baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). In the quadruple low CNI regimen, patients received everolimus (target trough level 3-5 ng/mL) with reduced CNI (tacrolimus 3-5 ng/mL or cyclosporine 25-75 ng/mL) and a cell cycle inhibitor plus prednisone. In the standard triple CNI regimen, patients received tacrolimus (target trough level >5 ng/mL) or cyclosporine (>100 ng/mL) and a cell cycle inhibitor plus prednisone. Of the 180 patients screened, 130 were randomized: 67 in the quadruple low CNI group and 63 in the standard triple CNI group. The primary endpoint (eGFR after 12 months) demonstrated superiority of the quadruple low CNI regimen: 64.5 mL/min vs 54.6 mL/min for the standard triple group (least squares mean, analysis of covariance; P < .001). Key efficacy parameters (biopsy-proven acute rejection, chronic lung allograft dysfunction, and death) and safety endpoints were similar between both groups. Quadruple low CNI immunosuppression early after lung transplantation was demonstrated to be efficacious and safe. Clinical trials registry: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01404325.

Early post-operative intravenous tacrolimus in pediatric liver transplant recipients is not superior to oral tacrolimus

We aimed to compare the early results of i.v. with p.o. TAC as a primary immunosuppressant in pediatric patients undergoing LT. This retrospective study enrolled 75 children who underwent LT and received TAC-steroid regimens as a primary immunosuppressant between September 2011 and October 2015 at our institution. Thirty-five recipients received TAC i.v. and 40 received TAC p.o. Early results were evaluated and compared, including ACR, EBV, or CMV infection; renal adverse effects; and hospital stay. Comparisons of 90-day post-transplant results showed that the rates of overall viral (74% vs 40% P < 0.002), EBV (46% vs 17.5% P < 0.008), and CMV (51% vs 30% P = 0.05) infections were significantly higher in the i.v. than in the p.o. group. Neither regimen has any adverse effects on renal function. There were no between-group differences in ACR incidence and severity, serum creatinine concentration, and hospital stay. Patient and graft survival rates at 3 months and 1 year did not differ significantly between the two groups. Compared with p.o. treatment, i.v. administration of high TAC concentration did not have beneficial post-transplant effects on ACR incidence and severity, while increasing the incidence of viral infections in pediatric LT.

International Liver Transplantation Society Consensus Statement on Immunosuppression in Liver Transplant Recipients

Effective immunosupression management is central to achieving optimal outcomes in liver transplant recipients. Current immunosuppression regimens and agents are highly effective in minimizing graft loss due to acute and chronic rejection but can also produce a substantial array of toxicities. The utilization of immunosuppression varies widely, contributing to the wide disparities in posttransplant outcomes reported between transplant centers. The International Liver Transplantation Society (ILTS) convened a consensus conference, comprised of a global panel of expert hepatologists, transplant surgeons, nephrologists, and pharmacologists to review the literature and experience pertaining to immunosuppression management to develop guidelines on key aspects of immunosuppression. The consensus findings and recommendations of the ILTS Consensus guidelines on immunosuppression in liver transplant recipients are presented in this article.

Update on Immunosuppression in Liver Transplantation

The standard therapy for decompensated end-stage chronic liver disease of any etiology and acute fulminant hepatic failure is liver transplantation (LT). Advances in immunosuppressive therapy decreased the rates of acute and chronic rejections. Thus, graft and patient survivals have significantly improved. However, long-term adverse effects of prolonged use of immunosuppressive agents such as malignancies, opportunistic infections, metabolic disorders, and other organ toxicities have now become a major concern. Consequently, alternative approaches are needed to deescalate the customary drugs and their side effects. Therapy must be individualized and additional preventive measures should be taken by patients with particular risk factors or predisposed to certain adverse effects. Current opinion favors a combination of agents with different mechanism of actions and toxicity profiles. Corticosteroids are employed in immediate and early postoperative period. Although they have a pronounced side effect profile, calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) are still the backbone of early and late phase immunosuppressive regimens because of their proved efficacy. Antimetabolites are frequent choices for steroid and/or CNI-sparing strategies. Studies also have established a role for mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors in specific groups of recipients. Biologic agents are a hot topic of interest and made their way into current strategies for induction. Agents extrapolated from other transplantation or immunologic experience are being evaluated.

Renal Dysfunction after Living-Donor Liver Transplantation: Experience with 500 Cases

Introduction. The possible risk factors for chronic kidney disease in transplant recipients have not been thoroughly investigated after living-donor liver transplantation. Material and Methods. A retrospective cohort study of consecutive adults who underwent living-donor liver transplantation between May 2004 and October 2016, in a single center, was conducted. Kidney function was investigated successively for all the patients throughout the study period, with 12 months being the shortest follow-up. Postoperative renal dysfunction was defined in accordance with the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration criteria. The patients' demographic data, preoperative and intraoperative parameters, and outcomes were recorded. A calcineurin inhibitor-based immunosuppressive regimen, either tacrolimus or cyclosporine, was used in all the patients. Results. Of the 413 patients included in the study, 33 (8%) who survived for ≥1 year experienced chronic kidney disease 1 year after living-donor liver transplantation. Twenty-seven variables were studied to compare between the patients with normal kidney functions and those who developed chronic kidney disease 1 year after living-donor liver transplantation. Univariate regression analysis for predicting the likelihood of chronic kidney disease at 1 year revealed that the following 4 variables were significant: operative time, P < 0.0005; intraoperative blood loss, P < 0.0005; preoperative renal impairment, P = 0.001; and graft-to-recipient weight ratio (as a negative predictor), P < 0.0005. In the multivariate regression analysis, only 2 variables remained as independent predictors of chronic kidney disease at 1 year, namely, operative time with a cutoff value of ≥714 minutes and graft-to-recipient weight ratio as a negative predictor with a cutoff value of <0.91. Conclusion. In this study, prolonged operative time and small graft-to-recipient weight ratio were independent predictors of chronic kidney disease at 1 year after living-donor liver transplantation.

Side effects and efficacy of renal sparing immunosuppression in pediatric liver transplantation-A single center matched cohort study

Immunosuppressive combination therapy with MMF can reduce CNI associated nephrotoxicity. We investigated effectiveness and safety of de novo MMF-tacrolimus based immunosuppression after pLTx. Patients after pLTx receiving immunosuppression with MMF/tacrolimus (MMF/TAC) were compared to retrospectively selected age- and diagnosis-matched patients with tacrolimus monotherapy (TAC) and cyclosporine/prednisolone therapy (CSA) (19 patients each, n = 57). Effectiveness, renal function and side effects were analyzed for 1 year after pLTx. Tacrolimus reduction in combination therapy (0.7 μg/L over the year) was lower than aspired (2 μg/L). Acute BPAR occurred equally in MMF/TAC and TAC groups (31.6% each), being slightly higher in CSA group (42.1%; OR = 1.5; 95% CI = 0.42-5.44; P = .5). GFR deteriorated comparably in all 3 groups (P < .01 each) without significant differences between the groups. Septicemia was detected significantly more often in MMF/TAC (73.6%) than in TAC (31.6%) (OR 4.17; 1.07-16.27; P = .04). EBV reactivation occurred more often in CSA patients (84.2%) than in MMF/TAC (47.4%; OR 5.16; 0.98-27.19; P = .05) and TAC patients (52.6%; OR 8.16; 1.48-44.89; P = .02) the same was true for other viral infections (47.4% (CSA) vs 15.8% (TAC); OR 4.21; 0.95-18.55; P = .05). Our study does not provide additional evidence for a benefit of initial use of MMF/TAC over TAC regarding renal function, but raises concerns regarding a potentially increased risk of serious infections under MMF/TAC compared to TAC monotherapy at equivalent renal outcome; our study is, however, limited by the minor CNI reduction in combination therapy.

Everolimus vs Mycophenolate Mofetil in Combination With Tacrolimus: A Propensity Score-matched Analysis in Liver Transplantation

BACKGROUND

No trial has investigated the long-term outcome of everolimus (EVR)-incorporating immunosuppression vs tacrolimus (TAC) and mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) after liver transplantation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

With a propensity score methodology, 178 recipients on TAC and MMF were compared to 178 patients on TAC and EVR.

RESULTS

At a median (interquartile range) follow-up of 45 (46.3) months, the probability of treated biopsy-proven acute rejection, graft loss, and death was 36.6% for MMF and 28.1% for EVR (P = .0891). Treated biopsy-proven acute rejection was numerically lower for EVR (3.3% vs 7.3%, P = .09), while adverse events (70.2% vs 58.9%, P = .02) and drug discontinuations (21.3% vs 11.8%, P = .01) were significantly higher with regard to hypercholesterolemia (P = .001), thrombocytopenia (P = .0062), and edema (P = .0107). Patients on MMF showed more hypertension (P = .0315), tremor (P = .0006), cytomegalovirus infection (P = .0165), and malignancies (P = .0175). EVR was associated with lesser deterioration in mean (SD) renal function at the latest follow-up (-2.2 (1.8) vs -5.1 (3.2) mL/min/1.73 m², t = 3.6, P = .005).

CONCLUSIONS

The efficacy of the combination of TAC and EVR is comparable to that of TAC and MMF. Drug discontinuations and adverse events were higher for patients on EVR, but these latter showed less hypertension, cytomegalovirus infection, and renal dysfunction. The observed reduction in posttransplant malignancies for EVR requires longer follow-up to be confirmed.

Key role of renal biopsy in management of progressive chronic kidney disease in liver graft recipients

AIMS

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a common complication after liver transplantation (LT). The etiology of CKD is broad and may only be assessed accurately by renal histology. The current study aimed to analyze the safety of renal biopsy in daily clinical practice as well as its usefulness regarding management of CKD after LT.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of clinical data and renal biopsies obtained from patients with severe renal impairment (overt proteinuria, progressive deterioration of renal function) after LT with respect to safety, etiology of renal disease, and therapeutic consequences.

RESULTS

Renal biopsies were obtained from 14 patients at median (minimum-maximum) 3 (0.2-12) years after LT. No major complications associated with renal biopsy were observed. Histomorphological alterations were varied (nephrosclerosis, n = 5; IgA-glomerulonephritis, n = 4; tenofovir-associated nephropathy, membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis type 1, membranous glomerulonephritis, amyloid A amyloidosis, and calcineurin inhibitor nephropathy, n = 1, respectively). The diagnosis of specific renal diseases other than calcineurin-inhibitor nephrotoxicity facilitated specific treaments and avoided unnecessary modification of immunosuppression in the majority of patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Renal biopsy in patients with CKD after LT seems safe and may offer specific therapeutic options. Furthermore, unnecessary changes of immunosuppression can be avoided in a considerable number of patients.

Regulatory T-cell therapy in liver transplantation

Modern immunosuppression drug regimens have produced excellent short-term survival after liver transplantation but it is generally accepted that the side effects of these medications remain a significant contributing factor for less satisfactory long term outcomes. The liver has unique tolerogenic properties as evidenced by the higher rates of operational tolerance seen in liver transplant recipients compared to other solid organ transplants, and therefore, liver transplantation offers an attractive setting in which to study tolerizing therapies. CD4⁺ CD25⁺ FOXP3⁺ regulatory T cells (Tregs) are crucial for maintenance of self-tolerance and prevention of autoimmune disease and are therefore an appealing potential candidate for use as a tolerizing cell therapy. In this review, we summarize the evidence from drug withdrawal trials of spontaneous operational tolerance in liver transplantation, the unique immunology of the hepatic microenvironment, the evidence for the use of CD4⁺ CD25⁺ FOXP3⁺ regulatory T cells as a tolerance inducing therapy in liver transplantation and the challenges in producing clinical grade Treg cell products.