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Berger M, Baliker M, Van Gelder T, Böhmig GA, Mannon RB, Kumar D, Chadban S, Nickerson P, Lee LA, Djamali A. Chronic Active Antibody-mediated Rejection: Opportunity to Determine the Role of Interleukin-6 Blockade. Transplantation 2024; 108:1109-1114. [PMID: 37941113 PMCID: PMC11042519 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000004822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Chronic active antibody-mediated rejection (caAMR) is arguably the most important cause of late kidney allograft failure. However, there are no US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved treatments for acute or chronic AMR and there is no consensus on effective treatment. Many trials in transplantation have failed because of slow and/or inadequate enrollment, and no new agent has been approved by the FDA for transplantation in over a decade. Several lines of evidence suggest that interleukin-6 is an important driver of AMR, and clazakizumab, a humanized monoclonal antibody that neutralizes interleukin-6, has shown promising results in phase 2 studies. The IMAGINE trial (Interleukin-6 Blockade Modifying Antibody-mediated Graft Injury and Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate Decline) (NCT03744910) is the first to be considered by the FDA using a reasonably likely surrogate endpoint (slope of estimated glomerular filtration rate decline >1 y) for accelerated approval and is the only ongoing clinical trial for the treatment of chronic rejection. This trial offers us the opportunity to advance the care for our patients in need, and this article is a call to action for all transplant providers caring for patients with caAMR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mel Berger
- Departments of Pediatrics and Pathology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH
| | | | - Teun Van Gelder
- Department Clinical Pharmacy and Toxicology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Georg A. Böhmig
- Division of Nephrology and Dialysis, Department of Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Roslyn B. Mannon
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
| | - Deepali Kumar
- Department of Medicine, Division of Transplant Infectious Disease, Ajmera Transplant Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Steve Chadban
- Department of Renal Medicine, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Peter Nickerson
- Department of Medicine, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Laurie A. Lee
- Research and Development, Transplant Therapeutic Area, CSL Behring, King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, PA
| | - Arjang Djamali
- Department of Medicine, Maine Medical Center, Portland, ME
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2
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Pearl MH. Clinical conundrums in pediatric kidney transplantation: What we know about the role of angiotensin II type I receptor antibodies in pediatric kidney transplantation and the path forward. Pediatr Transplant 2024; 28:e14762. [PMID: 38650537 PMCID: PMC11060698 DOI: 10.1111/petr.14762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Antibodies to angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R-Abs) are among the most well-studied non-HLA antibodies in renal transplantation. These antibodies have been shown to be common in pediatric kidney transplantation and associated with antibody-mediated rejection (AMR), vascular inflammation, development of human leukocyte donor-specific antibodies (HLA DSA), and allograft loss. As AT1R-Ab testing becomes more readily accessible, evidence to guide clinical practice for testing and treating AT1R-Ab positivity in pediatric kidney transplant recipients remains limited. This review discusses the clinical complexities of evaluating AT1R-Abs given the current available evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghan H Pearl
- Division of Pediatric Nephrology, Department of Pediatrics, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
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3
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Provenzano M, Hu L, Tringali E, Senatore M, Talarico R, Di Dio M, Ruotolo C, La Manna G, Garofalo C, Zaza G. Improving Kidney Disease Care: One Giant Leap for Nephrology. Biomedicines 2024; 12:828. [PMID: 38672183 PMCID: PMC11048002 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12040828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Nephrology is an ever-evolving field of medicine. The importance of such a discipline is related to the high clinical impact of kidney disease. In fact, abnormalities of kidney function and/or structure are common in the general population, reaching an overall prevalence of about 10%. More importantly, the onset of kidney damage is related to a strikingly high risk of cardiovascular events, mortality, and progression to kidney failure which, in turn, compromises quality and duration of life. Attempts to comprehend the pathogenesis and molecular mechanisms involved in kidney disease occurrence have prompted the development and implementation of novel drugs in clinical practice with the aim of treating the 'specific cause' of kidney disease (including chronic kidney disease, glomerular disease, and genetic kidney disorders) and the main immunological complications following kidney transplantation. Herein, we provide an overview of the principal emerging drug classes with proved efficacy in the context of the aforementioned clinical conditions. This can represent a simplified guide for clinical nephrologists to remind them of the vast and heterogeneous armamentarium of drugs that should be used in the present and the future to improve the management of patients suffering from kidney disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Provenzano
- Department of Pharmacy Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (M.S.); (R.T.)
| | - Lilio Hu
- Nephrology, Dialysis and Kidney Transplant Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (L.H.); (E.T.); (G.L.M.)
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Edoardo Tringali
- Nephrology, Dialysis and Kidney Transplant Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (L.H.); (E.T.); (G.L.M.)
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Massimo Senatore
- Department of Pharmacy Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (M.S.); (R.T.)
| | - Roberta Talarico
- Department of Pharmacy Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (M.S.); (R.T.)
| | - Michele Di Dio
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, SS Annunziata Hospital, 87100 Cosenza, Italy;
| | - Chiara Ruotolo
- Unit of Nephrology, Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (C.R.); (C.G.)
| | - Gaetano La Manna
- Nephrology, Dialysis and Kidney Transplant Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (L.H.); (E.T.); (G.L.M.)
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Carlo Garofalo
- Unit of Nephrology, Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (C.R.); (C.G.)
| | - Gianluigi Zaza
- Department of Pharmacy Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (M.S.); (R.T.)
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4
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Heeger PS, Haro MC, Jordan S. Translating B cell immunology to the treatment of antibody-mediated allograft rejection. Nat Rev Nephrol 2024; 20:218-232. [PMID: 38168662 DOI: 10.1038/s41581-023-00791-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Antibody-mediated rejection (AMR), including chronic AMR (cAMR), causes ~50% of kidney allograft losses each year. Despite attempts to develop well-tolerated and effective therapeutics for the management of AMR, to date, none has obtained FDA approval, thereby highlighting an urgent unmet medical need. Discoveries over the past decade from basic, translational and clinical studies of transplant recipients have provided a foundation for developing novel therapeutic approaches to preventing and treating AMR and cAMR. These interventions are aimed at reducing donor-specific antibody levels, decreasing graft injury and fibrosis, and preserving kidney function. Innovative approaches emerging from basic science findings include targeting interactions between alloreactive T cells and B cells, and depleting alloreactive memory B cells, as well as donor-specific antibody-producing plasmablasts and plasma cells. Therapies aimed at reducing the cytotoxic antibody effector functions mediated by natural killer cells and the complement system, and their associated pro-inflammatory cytokines, are also undergoing evaluation. The complexity of the pathogenesis of AMR and cAMR suggest that multiple approaches will probably be required to treat these disease processes effectively. Definitive answers await results from large, double-blind, multicentre, randomized controlled clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter S Heeger
- Comprehensive Transplant Center, Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology Cedars-Sinai Medical Center Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Maria Carrera Haro
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Mount Sinai, NY, USA
| | - Stanley Jordan
- Comprehensive Transplant Center, Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology Cedars-Sinai Medical Center Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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5
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Streichart L, Felldin M, Ekberg J, Mjörnstedt L, Lindnér P, Lennerling A, Bröcker V, Mölne J, Holgersson J, Daenen K, Wennberg L, Lorant T, Baid-Agrawal S. Tocilizumab in chronic active antibody-mediated rejection: rationale and protocol of an in-progress randomized controlled open-label multi-center trial (INTERCEPT study). Trials 2024; 25:213. [PMID: 38519988 PMCID: PMC10958896 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-024-08020-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic active antibody-mediated rejection (caAMR) in kidney transplants is associated with irreversible tissue damage and a leading cause of graft loss in the long-term. However, the treatment for caAMR remains a challenge to date. Recently, tocilizumab, a recombinant humanized monoclonal antibody directed against the human interleukin-6 (IL-6) receptor, has shown promise in the treatment of caAMR. However, it has not been systematically investigated so far underscoring the need for randomized controlled studies in this area. METHODS The INTERCEPT study is an investigator-driven randomized controlled open-label multi-center trial in kidney transplant recipients to assess the efficacy of tocilizumab in the treatment of biopsy-proven caAMR. A total of 50 recipients with biopsy-proven caAMR at least 12 months after transplantation will be randomized to receive either tocilizumab (n = 25) added to our standard of care (SOC) maintenance treatment or SOC alone (n = 25) for a period of 24 months. Patients will be followed for an additional 12 months after cessation of study medication. After the inclusion biopsies at baseline, protocol kidney graft biopsies will be performed at 12 and 24 months. The sample size calculation assumed a difference of 5 ml/year in slope of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) between the two groups for 80% power at an alpha of 0.05. The primary endpoint is the slope of eGFR at 24 months after start of treatment. The secondary endpoints include assessment of the following at 12, 24, and 36 months: composite risk score iBox, safety, evolution and characteristics of donor-specific antibodies (DSA), graft histology, proteinuria, kidney function assessed by measured GFR (mGFR), patient- and death-censored graft survival, and patient-reported outcomes that include transplant-specific well-being, adherence to immunosuppressive medications and perceived threat of the risk of graft rejection. DISCUSSION No effective treatment exists for caAMR at present. Based on the hypothesis that inhibition of IL-6 receptor by tocilizumab will reduce antibody production and reduce antibody-mediated damage, our randomized trial has a potential to provide evidence for a novel treatment strategy for caAMR, therewith slowing the decline in graft function in the long-term. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04561986. Registered on September 24, 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lillian Streichart
- Transplant Institute, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, 413 45, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Marie Felldin
- Transplant Institute, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, 413 45, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Jana Ekberg
- Transplant Institute, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, 413 45, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Lars Mjörnstedt
- Transplant Institute, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, 413 45, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Per Lindnér
- Transplant Institute, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, 413 45, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Annette Lennerling
- Transplant Institute, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, 413 45, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Verena Bröcker
- Department of Pathology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Johan Mölne
- Department of Pathology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Jan Holgersson
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Gothenburg and Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Kristien Daenen
- Department of Nephrology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Lars Wennberg
- Department of Transplantation Surgery, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Tomas Lorant
- Section of Transplantation Surgery, Department of Surgical Sciences, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Seema Baid-Agrawal
- Transplant Institute, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, 413 45, Gothenburg, Sweden.
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6
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Pottebaum AA, January SE, Liu C, Lavine S, Schilling JD, Lavine KJ. Feasibility of Interleukin-6 Receptor Blockade in Cardiac Antibody-mediated Rejection. Transplantation 2024; 108:539-544. [PMID: 37638881 PMCID: PMC10798586 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000004784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) remains a significant cause of heart transplant mortality with few effective therapies. METHODS This study aimed to describe initial experience of using interleukin-6 receptor blockade with tocilizumab in the treatment of acute cardiac AMR at Barnes-Jewish Hospital/Washington University Transplant Center from July 2017 to May 2021 (n = 7). Clinical, echocardiographic, and serum alloantibody data were analyzed before and after treatment. RESULTS All participants demonstrated marked improvement in functional status. Echocardiographic data following 4-6 mo of tocilizumab revealed significant improvements in biventricular systolic function for all participants. Consistent reductions in donor-specific HLA or angiotensin type I receptor antibodies were not observed, suggesting that tocilizumab may act downstream of antibody production. No patient experienced drug-related complications that necessitated discontinuation of therapy. CONCLUSIONS These findings provide initial insights into the safety and efficacy of interleukin-6 receptor blockade in the treatment of cardiac AMR and support the design of larger prospective studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Chang Liu
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Steven Lavine
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Joel D Schilling
- Center for Cardiovascular Research, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Kory J Lavine
- Center for Cardiovascular Research, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
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7
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Fang X, Cui S, Lee H, Min JW, Lim SW, Oh EJ, Yang CW, Shin YJ, Chung BH. Combined Use of Tocilizumab and Mesenchymal Stem Cells Attenuate the Development of an Anti-HLA-A2.1 Antibody in a Highly Sensitized Mouse Model. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1378. [PMID: 38338657 PMCID: PMC10855827 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Sensitization to HLA can result in allograft loss for kidney transplantation (KT) patients. Therefore, it is required to develop an appropriate desensitization (DSZ) technique to remove HLA-donor-specific anti-HLA antibody (DSA) before KT. The aim of this research was to investigate whether combined use of the IL-6 receptor-blocking antibody, tocilizumab (TCZ), and bone-marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) could attenuate humoral immune responses in an allo-sensitized mouse model developed using HLA.A2 transgenic mice. Wild-type C57BL/6 mice were sensitized with skin allografts from C57BL/6-Tg (HLA-A2.1)1Enge/J mice and treated with TCZ, BM-MSC, or both TCZ and BM-MSC. We compared HLA.A2-specific IgG levels and subsets of T cells and B cells using flow cytometry among groups. HLA.A2-specific IgG level was decreased in all treated groups in comparison with that in the allo-sensitized control (Allo-CONT) group. Its decrease was the most significant in the TCZ + BM-MSC group. Regarding the B cell subset, combined use of TCZ and BM-MSC increased proportions of pre-pro B cells but decreased proportions of mature B cells in BM (p < 0.05 vs. control). In the spleen, an increase in transitional memory was observed with a significant decrease in marginal, follicular, and long-lived plasma B cells (p < 0.05 vs. control) in the TCZ + BM-MSC group. In T cell subsets, Th2 and Th17 cells were significantly decreased, but Treg cells were significantly increased in the TCZ+BM-MSC group compared to those in the Allo-CONT group in the spleen. Regarding RNA levels, IL-10 and Foxp3 showed increased expression, whereas IL-23 and IFN-γ showed decreased expression in the TCZ + BM-MSC group. In conclusion, combined use of TCZ and BM-MSC can inhibit B cell maturation and up-regulate Treg cells, finally resulting in the reduction of HLA.A2-specific IgG in a highly sensitized mouse model. This study suggests that the combined use of TCZ and BM-MSC can be proposed as a novel strategy in a desensitization protocol for highly sensitized patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianying Fang
- Transplantation Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea; (X.F.); (S.C.); (H.L.); (J.W.M.); (S.W.L.); (E.-J.O.); (C.W.Y.)
| | - Sheng Cui
- Transplantation Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea; (X.F.); (S.C.); (H.L.); (J.W.M.); (S.W.L.); (E.-J.O.); (C.W.Y.)
| | - Hanbi Lee
- Transplantation Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea; (X.F.); (S.C.); (H.L.); (J.W.M.); (S.W.L.); (E.-J.O.); (C.W.Y.)
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, The College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Won Min
- Transplantation Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea; (X.F.); (S.C.); (H.L.); (J.W.M.); (S.W.L.); (E.-J.O.); (C.W.Y.)
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Bucheon St. Mary’s Hospital, The College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon-si 14647, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun Woo Lim
- Transplantation Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea; (X.F.); (S.C.); (H.L.); (J.W.M.); (S.W.L.); (E.-J.O.); (C.W.Y.)
| | - Eun-Jee Oh
- Transplantation Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea; (X.F.); (S.C.); (H.L.); (J.W.M.); (S.W.L.); (E.-J.O.); (C.W.Y.)
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, The College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea
| | - Chul Woo Yang
- Transplantation Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea; (X.F.); (S.C.); (H.L.); (J.W.M.); (S.W.L.); (E.-J.O.); (C.W.Y.)
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, The College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoo Jin Shin
- Transplantation Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea; (X.F.); (S.C.); (H.L.); (J.W.M.); (S.W.L.); (E.-J.O.); (C.W.Y.)
| | - Byung Ha Chung
- Transplantation Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea; (X.F.); (S.C.); (H.L.); (J.W.M.); (S.W.L.); (E.-J.O.); (C.W.Y.)
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, The College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea
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Sallustio F, Picerno A, Cimmarusti MT, Montenegro F, Curci C, De Palma G, Sivo C, Annese F, Fontò G, Stasi A, Pesce F, Tafuri S, Di Leo V, Gesualdo L. Elevated levels of IL-6 in IgA nephropathy patients are induced by an epigenetically driven mechanism modulated by viral and bacterial RNA. Eur J Intern Med 2023; 118:108-117. [PMID: 37550110 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2023.07.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) is the most frequent primary glomerulonephritis and the role of IL-6 in pathogenesis is becoming increasingly important. A recent whole genome DNA methylation screening in IgAN patients identified a hypermethylated region comprising the non-coding RNA Vault RNA 2-1 (VTRNA2-1) that could explain the high IL-6 levels. METHODS The pathway leading to IL-6 secretion controlled by VTRNA2-1, PKR, and CREB was analyzed in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) isolated from healthy subjects (HS), IgAN patients, transplanted patients with or without IgAN. The role of double and single-strand RNA in controlling the pathway was investigated. RESULTS VTRNA2-1 was downregulated in IgAN compared to HS and in transplanted IgAN patients (TP-IgAN) compared to non-IgAN transplanted (TP). The loss of the VTRNA2-1 natural restrain in IgAN patients caused PKR hyperphosphorylation, and consequently the activation of CREB by PKR, which, in turn, led to high IL-6 production, both in IgAN and in TP-IgAN patients. IL-6 levels could be decreased by the PKR inhibitor imoxin. In addition, PKR is normally activated by bacterial and viral RNA, and we found that both the RNA poly(I:C), and the COVID-19 RNA-vaccine stimulation significantly increased the IL-6 levels in PBMCs from HS but had an opposite effect in those from IgAN patients. CONCLUSION The discovery of the upregulated VTRNA2-1/PKR/CREB/IL-6 pathway in IgAN patients may provide a novel approach to treating the disease and may be useful for the development of precision nephrology and personalized therapy by checking the VTRNA2-1 methylation level in IgAN patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Sallustio
- Renal, Dialysis and Transplantation Unit, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DIMEPRE-J), University of Bari, Piazza G. Cesare, Bari 11 70124, Italy.
| | - Angela Picerno
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Cimmarusti
- Renal, Dialysis and Transplantation Unit, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DIMEPRE-J), University of Bari, Piazza G. Cesare, Bari 11 70124, Italy
| | - Francesca Montenegro
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Claudia Curci
- Renal, Dialysis and Transplantation Unit, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DIMEPRE-J), University of Bari, Piazza G. Cesare, Bari 11 70124, Italy
| | - Giuseppe De Palma
- Institutional Biobank, Experimental Oncology and Biobank Management Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori Bari Giovanni Paolo II, Bari, Italy
| | - Carmen Sivo
- Renal, Dialysis and Transplantation Unit, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DIMEPRE-J), University of Bari, Piazza G. Cesare, Bari 11 70124, Italy
| | - Francesca Annese
- Renal, Dialysis and Transplantation Unit, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DIMEPRE-J), University of Bari, Piazza G. Cesare, Bari 11 70124, Italy
| | - Giulia Fontò
- Renal, Dialysis and Transplantation Unit, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DIMEPRE-J), University of Bari, Piazza G. Cesare, Bari 11 70124, Italy
| | - Alessandra Stasi
- Renal, Dialysis and Transplantation Unit, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DIMEPRE-J), University of Bari, Piazza G. Cesare, Bari 11 70124, Italy
| | - Francesco Pesce
- Renal, Dialysis and Transplantation Unit, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DIMEPRE-J), University of Bari, Piazza G. Cesare, Bari 11 70124, Italy
| | - Silvio Tafuri
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Di Leo
- Renal, Dialysis and Transplantation Unit, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DIMEPRE-J), University of Bari, Piazza G. Cesare, Bari 11 70124, Italy
| | - Loreto Gesualdo
- Renal, Dialysis and Transplantation Unit, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DIMEPRE-J), University of Bari, Piazza G. Cesare, Bari 11 70124, Italy
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9
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Budhiraja P, Nguyen M, Heilman R, Kaplan B. The Role of Allograft Nephrectomy in the Failing Kidney Transplant. Transplantation 2023; 107:2486-2496. [PMID: 37122077 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000004625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Patients with failed renal allografts have associated increased morbidity and mortality. The individualization of immunosuppression taper is the key element in managing these patients to avoid graft intolerance and sensitization while balancing the risk of continued immunosuppression. Most patients with uncomplicated chronic allograft failure do not require allograft nephrectomy (AN), and there is no clear evidence that it improves outcomes. The AN procedure is associated with variable morbidity and mortality. It is reserved mainly for early technical graft failure or in symptomatic cases associated with allograft infection, malignancy, or graft intolerance syndrome. It may also be considered in those who cannot tolerate immunosuppression and are at high risk for graft intolerance. AN has been associated with an increased risk of sensitization due to inflammatory response from surgery, immunosuppression withdrawal with allograft failure, and retained endovascular tissue. Although it is presumed that for-cause AN after transplant failure is associated with sensitization, it remains unclear whether elective AN in patients who remain on immunotherapy may prevent sensitization. The current practice of immunosuppression taper has not been shown to prevent sensitization or increase infection risk, but current literature is limited by selection bias and the absence of medication adherence data. We discuss the management of failed allografts based on retransplant candidacy, wait times, risk of graft intolerance syndrome, and immunosuppression side effects. Many unanswered questions remain, and future prospective randomized trials are needed to help guide evidence-based management.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Bruce Kaplan
- Department of Medicine, Colorado Center for Transplantation Care, Research and Education (CCTCARE), University of Colorado, Aurora, CO
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10
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Dumortier J, Conti F, Hiriart JB, Dharancy S, Duvoux C, Besch C, Houssel-Debry P, Latournerie M, Chermak F, Meszaros M, Pageaux GP, Radenne S, Boillot O, Hardwigsen J, Kounis I, Kamar N, Saliba F, Erard D, Del Bello A. Treatment of donor-specific anti-HLA antibodies-mediated rejection after liver transplantation: A French nationwide retrospective study. Liver Transpl 2023; 29:1313-1322. [PMID: 37367954 DOI: 10.1097/lvt.0000000000000200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
The deleterious effect of donor-specific anti-HLA antibodies (DSA) after liver transplantation (LT) has been increasingly recognized during the past decade. Antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) represents a rare but severe complication in the presence of DSA. However, little is known concerning the treatment of AMR after LT. The nationwide French study aimed to describe LT recipients who received specific treatment of AMR. We performed a multicenter retrospective study on 44 patients who were treated with B-cell targeting agents from January 2008 to December 2020. Median patient age at the time of AMR treatment was 51.6 years (range: 17.9-68.0). AMR was classified as acute (n = 19) or chronic (n = 25). The diagnosis of AMR was made after a median time of 16.8 months (range: 0.4-274.2) after LT. The main therapeutic combination was plasma exchange/rituximab/IVIG (n = 25, 56.8%). The median follow-up after the treatment of AMR was 32 months (range: 1-115). After the treatment, 1-, 5- and 10-year patient and graft survivals were 77%, 55.9%, and 55.9%, and 69.5%, 47.0%, and 47.0%, respectively. Initial total bilirubin (Q1-Q3 vs. Q4) was significantly associated with patient survival (log-rank test, p = 0.005) and graft survival (log-rank test, p = 0.002). After a median follow-up of 21 months (range: 12-107), DSA became undetectable in 15/38 patients (39.5%) with available DSA monitoring. In conclusion, specific treatment of AMR in LT recipients has slowly emerged in France during the past decade and has probably been considered in the most severe patients; this explains the global poor outcome, even if the outcome was favorable in some cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jérôme Dumortier
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital Edouard Herriot, Fédération des Spécialités digestives, et Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
| | - Filomena Conti
- APHP, Hôpital de la Pitié Salpêtrière, Service d'hépatologie et transplantation hépatique, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Baptiste Hiriart
- CHU de Bordeaux, Hôpital Haut-Lévêque, Service de Chirurgie hépatobiliaire et de transplantation hépatique, Bordeaux, France
| | - Sébastien Dharancy
- CHU Lille, Hôpital Claude Huriez, Service des maladies de l'appareil digestif, Lille, France
| | | | - Camille Besch
- CHRU Hautepierre, Service de chirurgie hépato-bilio-pancréatique et transplantation hépatique, Strasbourg, France
| | - Pauline Houssel-Debry
- Hôpital Universitaire de Pontchaillou, Service d'Hépatologie et Transplantation hépatique, Rennes, France
| | - Marianne Latournerie
- CHU Dijon, Service d'Hépato-gastroentérologie et oncologie digestive, Inserm EPICAD LNC-UMR1231, Université de Bourgogne-Franche Comté, Dijon, France
| | - Faiza Chermak
- CHU de Bordeaux, Hôpital Haut-Lévêque, Service de Chirurgie hépatobiliaire et de transplantation hépatique, Bordeaux, France
| | - Magdalena Meszaros
- CHU Saint Eloi, Département d'hépato-gatroentérologie et transplantation hépatique, et Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Georges-Philippe Pageaux
- CHU Saint Eloi, Département d'hépato-gatroentérologie et transplantation hépatique, et Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Sylvie Radenne
- Hospices civils de Lyon, Hôpital de la Croix Rousse, Service d'Hépato-Gastroentérologie, Lyon, France
| | - Olivier Boillot
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital Edouard Herriot, Fédération des Spécialités digestives, et Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
| | - Jean Hardwigsen
- APHM, Hôpital La Timone, Service chirurgie générale et transplantation hépatique Marseille, France
| | - Ilias Kounis
- AP-HP, Hôpital Paul Brousse, Centre Hépato-Biliaire, INSERM, Unité 1193, Hepatinov, et Université Paris Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Nassim Kamar
- CHU Rangueil, Département de Néphrologie et Transplantation d'Organes, Toulouse, France
| | - Faouzi Saliba
- AP-HP, Hôpital Paul Brousse, Centre Hépato-Biliaire, INSERM, Unité 1193, Hepatinov, et Université Paris Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Domitille Erard
- Hospices civils de Lyon, Hôpital de la Croix Rousse, Service d'Hépato-Gastroentérologie, Lyon, France
| | - Arnaud Del Bello
- CHU Rangueil, Département de Néphrologie et Transplantation d'Organes, Toulouse, France
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11
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Arrivé C, Jacquet M, Gautier-Veyret E, Jouve T, Noble J, Lombardo D, Rostaing L, Stanke-Labesque F. Early Exposure of Kidney Transplant Recipients with Chronic Antibody-Mediated Rejection to Tocilizumab-A Preliminary Study. J Clin Med 2023; 12:7141. [PMID: 38002753 PMCID: PMC10672331 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12227141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Tocilizumab prevents clinical worsening of chronic antibody-mediated rejection (CAMR) of kidney transplant recipients. Optimization of this treatment is necessary. We identified the determinants of early tocilizumab exposure (within the first three months) and investigated the relationship between early plasma tocilizumab exposure and graft function. Patients with CAMR who started treatment with tocilizumab were retrospectively included. Demographic, clinical, and biological determinants of the tocilizumab trough concentration (Cmin) were studied using a linear mixed effect model, and the association between early exposure to tocilizumab (expressed as the sum of Cmin over the three first months (M) of treatment (ΣCmin)) and the urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) determined at M3 and M6 were investigated. Urinary tocilizumab was also measured in seven additional patients. Seventeen patients with 51 tocilizumab Cmin determinations were included. In the multivariate analysis, the ACR and time after tocilizumab initiation were independently associated with the tocilizumab Cmin. The ΣCmin was significantly lower (p = 0.014) for patients with an ACR > 30 mg/mmol at M3 and M6 than for patients with an ACR < 30 mg/mmol. Tocilizumab was detected in urine in only 1/7 patients. This study is the first to suggest that early exposure to tocilizumab may be associated with macroalbuminuria within the first six months in CAMR patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Capucine Arrivé
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Pharmacogenetics and Toxicology, Grenoble Alpes University Hospital, 38043 Grenoble, France; (C.A.)
| | - Marvin Jacquet
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Pharmacogenetics and Toxicology, Grenoble Alpes University Hospital, 38043 Grenoble, France; (C.A.)
| | - Elodie Gautier-Veyret
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Pharmacogenetics and Toxicology, Grenoble Alpes University Hospital, 38043 Grenoble, France; (C.A.)
- University Grenoble Alpes, Inserm, CHU Grenoble Alpes, HP2, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Thomas Jouve
- Department of Nephrology, Dialysis, Apheresis and Transplantation, Grenoble Alpes University Hospital, 38043 Grenoble, France
| | - Johan Noble
- Department of Nephrology, Dialysis, Apheresis and Transplantation, Grenoble Alpes University Hospital, 38043 Grenoble, France
| | - Dorothée Lombardo
- Department of Nephrology, Dialysis, Apheresis and Transplantation, Grenoble Alpes University Hospital, 38043 Grenoble, France
- Department of Pharmacy, Grenoble Alpes University Hospital, 38043 Grenoble, France
| | - Lionel Rostaing
- Department of Nephrology, Dialysis, Apheresis and Transplantation, Grenoble Alpes University Hospital, 38043 Grenoble, France
| | - Françoise Stanke-Labesque
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Pharmacogenetics and Toxicology, Grenoble Alpes University Hospital, 38043 Grenoble, France; (C.A.)
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12
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Süsal CC, Kraft L, Ender A, Süsal C, Schwenger A, Amann K, Böhmig GA, Schwenger V. Blood group-specific apheresis in combination with daratumumab as a rescue therapy of acute antibody-mediated rejection in a case of ABO- and human leukocyte antigen-incompatible kidney transplantation. SAGE Open Med Case Rep 2023; 11:2050313X231211050. [PMID: 38022864 PMCID: PMC10631334 DOI: 10.1177/2050313x231211050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
We report a case of antibody-mediated rejection treated with the human CD38 monoclonal antibody daratumumab in a 58-year-old female patient with end-stage kidney disease due to autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease who received an ABO- and human leukocyte antigen antibody-incompatible living donor kidney transplant. The patient experienced an episode of severe antibody-mediated rejection within the first week of transplantation. Blood-group-antibody selective immunoadsorption in combination with administration of four doses of daratumumab (each 1800 mg s.c.) led to a persistent decrease of ABO- and more interestingly donor-specific human leukocyte antigen antibody reactivity and resulted in clinical and histopathological remission with full recovery of graft function, which has remained stable until post-transplant day 212. This case illustrates the potential of targeting CD38 in antibody-mediated rejection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Can C Süsal
- Department of Nephrology, Klinikum Stuttgart—Katharinenhospital, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Leonie Kraft
- Department of Nephrology, Klinikum Stuttgart—Katharinenhospital, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Andrea Ender
- Central Institute for Transfusion Medicine and Blood Donation, Katharinenhospital Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Caner Süsal
- Transplant Immunology Research Center of Excellence, Koç University Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Amelie Schwenger
- Experimental Immunology, Department for Children and Adolescents Medicine, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Kerstin Amann
- Department of Nephropathology, Department of Pathology, University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Georg A Böhmig
- Division of Nephrology and Dialysis, Department of Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Vedat Schwenger
- Department of Nephrology, Klinikum Stuttgart—Katharinenhospital, Stuttgart, Germany
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13
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January SE, Fester KA, Halverson LP, Witt CA, Byers DE, Vazquez-Guillamet R, Alexander-Brett J, Tague LK, Kreisel D, Gelman A, Puri V, Bahena RN, Takahashi T, Hachem RR, Kulkarni HS. Tocilizumab for antibody-mediated rejection treatment in lung transplantation. J Heart Lung Transplant 2023; 42:1353-1357. [PMID: 37268051 PMCID: PMC10529998 DOI: 10.1016/j.healun.2023.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Tocilizumab (TCZ), an IL-6 inhibitor, has shown promise in the treatment of donor-specific antibodies (DSA) and chronic antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) in renal transplant recipients. However, its use in lung transplantation has not been described. This retrospective case-control study compared AMR treatments containing TCZ in 9 bilateral lung transplant recipients to 18 patients treated for AMR without TCZ. Treatment with TCZ resulted in more clearance of DSA, lower recurrence of DSA, lower incidence of new DSA, and lower rates of graft failure when compared to those treated for AMR without TCZ. The incidence of infusion reactions, elevation in transaminases, and infections were similar between the 2 groups. These data support a role for TCZ in pulmonary AMR and establish preliminary evidence to design a randomized controlled trial of IL-6 inhibition for the management of AMR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Spenser E January
- Department of Pharmacy, Barnes-Jewish Hospital , Saint Louis, Missouri.
| | - Keith A Fester
- Department of Pharmacy, Barnes-Jewish Hospital , Saint Louis, Missouri
| | - Laura P Halverson
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri
| | - Chad A Witt
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri
| | - Derek E Byers
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri
| | - Rodrigo Vazquez-Guillamet
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri
| | - Jennifer Alexander-Brett
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri
| | - Laneshia K Tague
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri
| | - Daniel Kreisel
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri
| | - Andrew Gelman
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri
| | - Varun Puri
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri
| | - Ruben Nava Bahena
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri
| | - Tsuyoshi Takahashi
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri
| | - Ramsey R Hachem
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri
| | - Hrishikesh S Kulkarni
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri
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14
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Kilić P, Ikić L, Mayer M, Artuković M, Maštrović Radončić K, Ikić Matijašević M. Safe and Efficient Use of Tocilizumab in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patient on Maintenance Hemodialysis: A Case Report. Medicina (Kaunas) 2023; 59:1517. [PMID: 37763636 PMCID: PMC10533146 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59091517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic systemic autoimmune and inflammatory disease. Conventional synthetic and biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), Janus kinase inhibitors, and rituximab are used to treat the disease. There are no recommendations or guidelines for the treatment of patients with both inflammatory arthritis and end-stage renal disease (ESRD), despite the safety and efficacy of the mentioned drugs. The anti-interleukin-6 receptor antibody tocilizumab (TCZ) has not been used as a long-term therapy for hemodialysis (HD) patients with RA, except in a few case reports. Case Description: We present the case of a 41-year-old patient with RA and ESRD on maintenance HD due to type 1 diabetes-related complications. Due to high RA disease activity, the patient was not a suitable candidate for a kidney transplant. Because TCZ is used to treat both RA and kidney transplant rejection, therapy with a full dose of TCZ was administered. The patient has achieved sustained clinical remission (for the past four years) with no adverse events reported. Conclusions: Herein, we present the safe and effective use of TCZ in an RA patient on HD who is also a candidate for kidney transplant. Consequently, TCZ could be the treatment of choice for RA patients with ESRD who have not achieved disease control (low activity or remission) with conventional synthetic DMARDs. Clinical studies are required to evaluate the efficacy and safety of biologic DMARDs and Janus kinase inhibitors in patients with both inflammatory arthritis and ESRD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Kilić
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Rheumatology, and Pulmonology, University Hospital Sveti Duh, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Lucija Ikić
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, University of Applied Health Sciences, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Miroslav Mayer
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
- Division of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marinko Artuković
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Rheumatology, and Pulmonology, University Hospital Sveti Duh, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Ksenija Maštrović Radončić
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University Hospital Sveti Duh, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Marina Ikić Matijašević
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Rheumatology, and Pulmonology, University Hospital Sveti Duh, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
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15
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Sasaki H, Tanabe T, Tsuji T, Hotta K. Mechanism and treatment for chronic antibody-mediated rejection in kidney transplant recipients. Int J Urol 2023; 30:624-633. [PMID: 37306194 DOI: 10.1111/iju.15197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Chronic antibody-mediated rejection of kidney transplantation is a major cause of late-stage graft loss. Donor-specific antibodies are the main cause of antibody-mediated rejection; in particular, de novo donor-specific antibodies are a risk factor for chronic active antibody-mediated rejection. The level of de novo donor-specific antibodies tends to increase with time throughout long-term graft survival. Donor-specific antibodies induce humoral rejection through complement activation, which results in tissue injury and coagulation. Additionally, complement activation promotes the migration of inflammatory cells through the innate immune response, causing endothelial injury. This inflammatory response may cause persistent glomerulitis and peritubular capillaritis, leading to fixed pathological lesions that impair graft function. No treatment has been established for chronic antibody-mediated rejection, a condition in which antibody-mediated rejection becomes irreversible. Thus, antibody-mediated rejection must be detected and treated while it is still reversible. In this review, we discuss the development of de novo donor-specific antibodies and the mechanisms leading to chronic antibody-mediated rejection and summarize the current treatment options and the latest biomarkers for detecting chronic antibody-mediated rejection at an earlier stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hajime Sasaki
- Division of Renal Surgery and Transplantation, Department of Urology, Jichi Medical University Hospital, Shimotsuke, Japan
- Department of Kidney Transplant Surgery, Sapporo City General Hospital, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Tatsu Tanabe
- Department of Kidney Transplant Surgery, Sapporo City General Hospital, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Takahiro Tsuji
- Department of Pathology, Sapporo City General Hospital, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Kiyohiko Hotta
- Department of Urology, Hokkaido University Hospital, Sapporo, Japan
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16
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Abuazzam F, Dubrawka C, Abdulhadi T, Amurao G, Alrata L, Yaseen Alsabbagh D, Alomar O, Alhamad T. Emerging Therapies for Antibody-Mediated Rejection in Kidney Transplantation. J Clin Med 2023; 12:4916. [PMID: 37568318 PMCID: PMC10419906 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12154916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the advances in immunosuppressive medications, antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) continues to be a major cause of kidney allograft failure and remains a barrier to improving long-term allograft survival. Recently, there have been significant advances in the understanding of the pathophysiological process of AMR, along with the development of new therapeutic options. Additionally, surveillance protocols with donor-derived cell-free DNA and gene profile testing have been established, leading to the early detection of AMR. A multitude of clinical trials are ongoing, opening numerous opportunities for improving outcome in kidney transplant recipients. In this brief review, we discuss the emerging therapies for managing both active and chronic active AMR and highlight the ongoing clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farah Abuazzam
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; (F.A.); (T.A.); (G.A.); (L.A.); (D.Y.A.); (O.A.)
| | - Casey Dubrawka
- Department of Pharmacy, Barnes Jewish Hospital, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA;
| | - Tarek Abdulhadi
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; (F.A.); (T.A.); (G.A.); (L.A.); (D.Y.A.); (O.A.)
| | - Gwendolyn Amurao
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; (F.A.); (T.A.); (G.A.); (L.A.); (D.Y.A.); (O.A.)
| | - Louai Alrata
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; (F.A.); (T.A.); (G.A.); (L.A.); (D.Y.A.); (O.A.)
| | - Dema Yaseen Alsabbagh
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; (F.A.); (T.A.); (G.A.); (L.A.); (D.Y.A.); (O.A.)
| | - Omar Alomar
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; (F.A.); (T.A.); (G.A.); (L.A.); (D.Y.A.); (O.A.)
| | - Tarek Alhamad
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; (F.A.); (T.A.); (G.A.); (L.A.); (D.Y.A.); (O.A.)
- Transplant Epidemiology Research Collaboration (TERC), Institute of Public Health, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
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17
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Jadaun SS, Agarwal S, Gupta S, Saigal S. Strategies for ABO Incompatible Liver Transplantation. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2023; 13:698-706. [PMID: 37440942 PMCID: PMC10333949 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2022.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/18/2022] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver transplantation (LT) is a definitive treatment for the decompensated liver cirrhosis and fulminant liver failure. With limited availability of cadaveric liver allograft, ABO incompatible (ABOi) living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) plays an important part in further expansion of donor pool. Over the years, with the introduction of Rituximab and improving desensitisation protocol, outcomes of ABOi LDLT are on par with ABO compatible LT. However, ABOi LDLT protocol varies markedly from centre to centre. Intravenous Rituximab followed by plasmapheresis or immunoadsorption effectively reduce ABO isoagglutinins titre before transplant, thereby reducing the risk of antibody mediated rejection in the post-transplant period. Local infusion therapy and splenectomy are not used routinely at most of the centres in Rituximab era. Post-transplant immunosuppression usually consists of standard triple drug regime, and tacrolimus trough levels are targeted at higher level compared to ABO compatible LT. Introduction of newer therapies like Belatacept and Obinutuzumab hold promise to further improve outcomes and reduce the risk of antibody mediated rejection related complications. ABOi LT in emergency situations like acute liver failure and deceased donor LT is challenging due to limited time period for desensitisation protocol before transplant, and available evidence are still limited but encouraging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shekhar S. Jadaun
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Centre for Liver and Biliary Sciences, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, New Delhi, India
| | - Shaleen Agarwal
- Liver Transplant and Gastrointestinal Surgery, Centre for Liver and Biliary Sciences, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, New Delhi, India
| | - Subhash Gupta
- Liver Transplant and Gastrointestinal Surgery, Centre for Liver and Biliary Sciences, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, New Delhi, India
| | - Sanjiv Saigal
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Centre for Liver and Biliary Sciences, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, New Delhi, India
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18
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Ferrándiz-Pulido C, Leiter U, Harwood C, Proby CM, Guthoff M, Scheel CH, Westhoff TH, Bouwes Bavinck JN, Meyer T, Nägeli MC, Del Marmol V, Lebbé C, Geusau A. Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients With Advanced Skin Cancers-Emerging Strategies for Clinical Management. Transplantation 2023; 107:1452-1462. [PMID: 36706163 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000004459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in solid organ transplant recipients (SOTRs) with advanced skin cancers presents a significant clinical management dilemma. SOTRs and other immunosuppressed patients have been routinely excluded from ICI clinical trials with good reason: immune checkpoints play an important role in self- and allograft-tolerance and risk of acute allograft rejection reported in retrospective studies affects 10% to 65% of cases. These reports also confirm that cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma respond to ICI therapy, although response rates are generally lower than those observed in immunocompetent populations. Prospective trials are now of critical importance in further establishing ICI efficacy and safety. However, based on current knowledge, we recommend that ICIs should be offered to kidney transplant recipients with advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma, or Merkel cell carcinoma if surgery and/or radiotherapy have failed. For kidney transplant recipients, this should be first line ahead of chemotherapy and targeted therapies. In SOTRs, the use of ICIs should be carefully considered with the benefits of ICIs versus risks of allograft rejection weighed up on a case-by-case basis as part of shared decision-making with patients. In all cases, parallel management of immunosuppression may be key to ICI responsiveness. We recommend maintaining immunosuppression before ICI initiation with a dual immunosuppressive regimen combining mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors and either corticosteroids or calcineurin inhibitors. Such modification of immunosuppression must be considered in the context of allograft risk (both rejection and also its subsequent treatment) and risk of tumor progression. Ultimately, a multidisciplinary approach should underpin all clinical decision-making in this challenging scenario.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Ferrándiz-Pulido
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ulrike Leiter
- Department of Dermatology, Eberhard-Karls University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Catherine Harwood
- Centre for Cell Biology and Cutaneous Research, Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Charlotte M Proby
- Department of Dermatology, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Martina Guthoff
- Department of Diabetology, Endocrinology, Nephrology, Section of Nephrology and Hypertension, Eberhard-Karls-University, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Christina H Scheel
- Department of Dermatology, Skin Cancer Center, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Timm H Westhoff
- Medical Department I, University Hospital Marien Hospital Herne, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | | | - Thomas Meyer
- Department of Dermatology, Skin Cancer Center, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Mirjam C Nägeli
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Veronique Del Marmol
- Service de Dermatologie, Hôpital Erasme, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Celeste Lebbé
- Dermato-Oncology Department, Université Paris Cite, AP-HP Hôpital Saint Louis, Cancer Institute APHP. Nord-Université Paris CiteINSERM U976, HIPI, Paris, France
| | - Alexandra Geusau
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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19
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Mizera J, Pilch J, Giordano U, Krajewska M, Banasik M. Therapy in the Course of Kidney Graft Rejection-Implications for the Cardiovascular System-A Systematic Review. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1458. [PMID: 37511833 PMCID: PMC10381422 DOI: 10.3390/life13071458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Kidney graft failure is not a homogenous disease and the Banff classification distinguishes several types of graft rejection. The maintenance of a transplant and the treatment of its failure require specific medications and differ due to the underlying molecular mechanism. As a consequence, patients suffering from different rejection types will experience distinct side-effects upon therapy. The review is focused on comparing treatment regimens as well as presenting the latest insights into innovative therapeutic approaches in patients with an ongoing active ABMR, chronic active ABMR, chronic ABMR, acute TCMR, chronic active TCMR, borderline and mixed rejection. Furthermore, the profile of cardiovascular adverse effects in relation to the applied therapy was subjected to scrutiny. Lastly, a detailed assessment and comparison of different approaches were conducted in order to identify those that are the most and least detrimental for patients suffering from kidney graft failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakub Mizera
- Department of Nephrology and Transplantation Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-551 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Justyna Pilch
- Department of Nephrology and Transplantation Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-551 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Ugo Giordano
- University Clinical Hospital, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-551 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena Krajewska
- Department of Nephrology and Transplantation Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-551 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Mirosław Banasik
- Department of Nephrology and Transplantation Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-551 Wroclaw, Poland
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20
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Parajuli S, Zhong W, Pantha M, Sokup M, Aziz F, Garg N, Mohamed M, Mandelbrot D. The Trend of Serum Creatinine Does Not Predict Follow-Up Biopsy Findings Among Kidney Transplant Recipients With Antibody-Mediated Rejection. Transplant Direct 2023; 9:e1489. [PMID: 37250486 PMCID: PMC10212615 DOI: 10.1097/txd.0000000000001489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Traditionally, antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) has been suspected mainly by a rise in serum creatinine (Scr) and confirmed by allograft biopsy. There is limited literature describing the trend of Scr after treatment, and how that trend might differ between patients with histological response and with no response to treatment. Methods We included all cases of AMR at our program between March 2016 and July 2020 who had a follow-up biopsy after the index biopsy, with initial diagnosis of AMR. We trended the Scr and change in Scr (delta Scr) and its association with being a responder (microvascular inflammation, MVI ≤1) or nonresponder (MVI >1), as well as graft failure. Results A total of 183 kidney transplant recipients were included, 66 in the responder group and 177 in the nonresponder group. The MVI scores and sum chronicity scores, along with transplant glomerulopathy scores, were higher in the nonresponder group. However, Scr at index biopsy was similar in responders (1.74 ± 0.70) versus nonresponders (1.83 ± 0.65; P = 0.39), as were the delta Scr at various time points. After adjustment for multiple variables, delta Scr was not associated with being a nonresponder. Also, delta Scr value at follow-up biopsy compared with index biopsy among responders was 0 ± 0.67 (P = 0.99) and among nonresponders was -0.01 ± 0.61 (P = 0.89). Being a nonresponder was significantly associated with an increased risk of graft failure at the last follow-up in univariate analysis but was not in multivariate analysis (hazard ratio 1.35; 95% confidence interval, 0.58-3.17; P = 0.49). Conclusions We found that Scr is not a good predictor of the resolution of MVI, supporting the utility of follow-up biopsies after treatment of AMR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandesh Parajuli
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI
| | - Weixiong Zhong
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI
| | - Monika Pantha
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI
| | - Megan Sokup
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI
| | - Fahad Aziz
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI
| | - Neetika Garg
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI
| | - Maha Mohamed
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI
| | - Didier Mandelbrot
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI
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21
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Lion J, Maitre ML, de Truchis C, Taupin JL, Poussin K, Haziot A, Chong E, Glotz D, Mooney N. Restriction of interleukin-6 alters endothelial cell immunogenicity in an allogenic environment. Clin Transplant 2023; 37:e14851. [PMID: 36495142 DOI: 10.1111/ctr.14851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The microvascular endothelium of the renal transplant is the first site of graft interaction with the host immune system and is often injured in chronic Antibody Mediated Rejection (AMR). Microvascular inflammation is an independent determinant of AMR and heightens endothelial expression of HLA molecules thereby increasing the possibility of Donor Specific Antibody (DSA) binding. Endothelial cells produce IL-6 in the steady-state and this is increased by inflammation or by HLA-DR antibody binding in an allogeneic setting. Because IL-6 has been implicated in AMR, IL-6 blockade is currently under investigation as a therapeutic target. To further understand the role of IL-6 in endothelial cell immunogenicity, we have examined whether humanized antibody blockade of IL-6 altered endothelial cell interactions with allogeneic PBMC and after anti-HLA or DSA binding to endothelial cells in an in vitro human experimental model. Soluble factors, endothelial phenotype, Stat-3 activation, CD4+ -T differentiation, and C4d deposition were examined. Blockade of IL-6 reduced endothelial cell secretion of IL-6 and of the monocyte chemoattractant MCP-1. Pre-activation of endothelial cells by anti-HLA or DSA binding increased IL-6 secretion, that was further increased by concurrent binding of both antibodies and this was inhibited by IL-6 blockade. Activation of Stat-3 in CD4+ -T mediated by soluble factors produced in endothelial-PBMC interactions, and endothelial differentiation of CD4+ -T cell subsets (Th1, Th17, Treg), were impaired whereas activation of Complement by anti-HLA antibody binding remained unchanged by IL-6 blockade. Together, these data identify EC-mediated pro-inflammatory responses (T cell expansion, EC auto-activation, chemokine secretion) targeted by IL-6 blockade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julien Lion
- INSERM U976, Institut de Recherche Saint Louis, Paris
| | | | | | | | | | - Alain Haziot
- INSERM U976, Institut de Recherche Saint Louis, Paris.,Université de Paris, Paris
| | | | - Denis Glotz
- INSERM U976, Institut de Recherche Saint Louis, Paris.,Université de Paris, Paris
| | - Nuala Mooney
- INSERM U976, Institut de Recherche Saint Louis, Paris.,Université de Paris, Paris
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22
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Abstract
Access to kidney transplantation is limited by HLA-specific sensitization. Desensitization strategies enable crossmatch-positive kidney transplantation. In this review, we describe clinical experience gained over the last 20 y using desensitization strategies before kidney transplantation and describe the different tools used (both drugs and apheresis options), including IVIg, rituximab, apheresis techniques, interleukin-6 interference, proteasome inhibition, enzymatic degradation of HLA antibodies, complement inhibition, and B cytokine interference. Although access to transplantation for highly sensitized kidney transplantation candidates has been vastly improved by desensitization strategies, it remains, however, limited by the recurrence of HLA antibodies after transplantation and the occurrence of antibody-mediated rejection.
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23
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Sethi S, Jordan SC. Novel therapies for treatment of antibody-mediated rejection of the kidney. Curr Opin Organ Transplant 2023; 28:29-35. [PMID: 36579683 DOI: 10.1097/mot.0000000000001037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW We aim to discuss current literature on novel therapies for antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) in kidney transplantation with a focus on chronic AMR. RECENT FINDINGS IL-6/IL-6 receptor blockers appear promising in the treatment of chronic AMR. Blocking this pathway was shown to reduce human leucocyte antigen-antibodies, improve histologic inflammation and increase T-regulatory cells. Based on experience in desensitization, IgG degrading endopeptidase, imlifidase, could be effective in AMR. There have been case reports describing the successful use of plasma cell/natural killer-cell-directed anti-CD38 antibody in the treatment of AMR. Off-target effects have been noted and strategies to mitigate these will be needed when using these agents. Complement inhibitors could be an effective add-on strategy to antibody-depleting therapies but their role in AMR needs to be better defined. Combining proteasome inhibitors and costimulation blockers has shown encouraging results in the prevention of AMR in animal models and is now being investigated in humans. Other novel strategies such as Fc neonatal receptor blockers which inhibit the recycling of pathogenic IgG and bispecific antibodies against B-cell maturation antigen/CD3+ T cells warrant further investigation. SUMMARY There are now a number of emerging therapies with varied targets and mechanism(s) of action that hold promise in the management of AMR and improving allograft survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Supreet Sethi
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
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24
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Borski A, Eskandary F, Haindl S, Doberer K, Mühlbacher J, Mayer KA, Budde K, Halloran PF, Chong E, Jilma B, Böhmig GA, Wahrmann M. Anti-interleukin-6 Antibody Clazakizumab in Antibody-mediated Renal Allograft Rejection: Accumulation of Antibody-neutralized Interleukin-6 Without Signs of Proinflammatory Rebound Phenomena. Transplantation 2023; 107:495-503. [PMID: 35969004 DOI: 10.1097/TP.0000000000004285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Blockade of interleukin-6 (IL-6) has emerged as a promising therapeutic option for antibody-mediated rejection. Subtherapeutic anti-IL-6 antibody level or treatment cessation following prolonged cytokine neutralization may result in proinflammatory rebound phenomena via accumulation of IL-6 and/or modulated gene expression of major components of the IL-6/IL-6 receptor (IL-6R) axis. METHODS We evaluated biologic material obtained from a randomized controlled, double-blind phase 2 trial designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the anti-IL-6 monoclonal antibody clazakizumab in late antibody-mediated rejection. Twenty kidney transplant recipients, allocated to clazakizumab or placebo, received 4-weekly doses over 12 wks, followed by a 40-wk extension where all recipients received clazakizumab. Serum proteins were detected using bead-based immunoassays and RNA transcripts using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (peripheral blood) or microarray analysis (serial allograft biopsies). RESULTS Clazakizumab treatment resulted in a substantial increase in median total (bound and unbound to drug) serum IL-6 level (1.4, 8015, and 13 600 pg/mL at 0, 12, and 52 wks), but median level of free (unbound to drug) IL-6 did not increase (3.0, 2.3, and 2.3 pg/mL, respectively). Neutralization of IL-6 did not boost soluble IL-6R or leukocyte or allograft expression of IL-6, IL-6R, and glycoprotein 130 mRNA. Cessation of treatment at the end of the trial did not result in a meaningful increase in C-reactive protein or accelerated progression of graft dysfunction during 12 mo of follow-up. CONCLUSION Our results argue against clinically relevant rebound phenomena and modulation of major components of the IL-6/IL-6R axis following prolonged IL-6 neutralization with clazakizumab.
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25
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Haas M, Mirocha J, Huang E, Najjar R, Peng A, Sethi S, Vo A, Anglicheau D, Jordan SC, Rabant M. A Banff-based histologic chronicity index is associated with graft loss in patients with a kidney transplant and antibody-mediated rejection. Kidney Int 2023; 103:187-195. [PMID: 36332728 DOI: 10.1016/j.kint.2022.09.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) is the major cause of graft loss in kidney transplant recipients. The Banff classification defines two classes of AMR, active and chronic active but over time this classification has become increasingly complex. To simplify the approach to AMR, we developed activity and chronicity indices based on kidney transplant biopsy findings and examined their association with graft survival in 147 patients with active or chronic active AMR, all of whom had donor-specific antibodies and were treated for AMR. The activity index was determined as the sum of Banff glomerulitis (g), peritubular capillaritis (ptc), arteritis (v) and C4d scores, with a maximum score of 12. The chronicity index was the sum of interstitial fibrosis (ci), tubular atrophy (ct), chronic vasculopathy (cv), and chronic glomerulopathy (cg) scores, the latter doubled, with a maximum score of 15. While the activity index was generally not associated with graft loss, the chronicity index was significantly associated with graft loss with an optimal threshold value of 4 or greater for predicting graft loss. The association of the chronicity index of 4 or greater with graft loss was independent of other parameters associated with graft loss, including the estimated glomerular filtration rate at the time of biopsy, chronic active (versus active) AMR, AMR with de novo (versus persistent/rebound) donor-specific antibodies, Banff (g+ptc) scores, concurrent T cell-mediated rejection and donor-specific antibody reduction post-biopsy. The association of the chronicity index of 4 or greater with graft loss was confirmed in an independent cohort of 61 patients from Necker Hospital, Paris. Thus, our findings suggest that the chronicity index may be valuable as a simplified approach to decision-making in patients with AMR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Haas
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA.
| | - James Mirocha
- General Clinical Research Center, Clinical & Translational Science Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Edmund Huang
- Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Reiad Najjar
- Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Alice Peng
- Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Supreet Sethi
- Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Ashley Vo
- Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Dany Anglicheau
- Deparment of Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation, Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital, AP-HP, INSERM U1151, Université Paris Cite, Paris, France
| | - Stanley C Jordan
- Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Marion Rabant
- Department of Pathology, Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital, AP-HP, Université Paris Cite, Paris, France
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26
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Khairallah P, Robbins-Juarez S, Patel S, Shah V, Toma K, Fernandez H, Dube GK, King K, Mohan S, Husain SA, Morris H, Crew RJ. Tocilizumab for the treatment of chronic antibody mediated rejection in kidney transplant recipients. Clin Transplant 2023; 37:e14853. [PMID: 36398915 DOI: 10.1111/ctr.14853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic active antibody-mediated rejection (CAAMR) constitutes a dominant form of late allograft failure. Several treatment strategies directed at CAAMR have been attempted but proven ineffective at delaying kidney function decline or reducing donor-specific antibodies (DSA). We describe our single-center experience using tocilizumab in patients with CAAMR. METHODS This is a retrospective analysis using electronic medical records. 38 kidney transplant recipients at Columbia University Irving Medical Center who had been prescribed tocilizumab and followed for at least 3 months between August 2013 through December 2019 were included. RESULTS Tocilizumab use was associated with a decrease in the rate of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) decline in the 6 months following treatment initiation as compared to the 3 months before tocilizumab was initiated (difference between slopes before and after initiation of treatment = 2.6 mL/min/1.73 m2 (SE = .8, p = .002) per month for up to 6 months following Tocilizumab initiation). Allograft biopsies showed significant improvement in interstitial inflammation scores (score 1(0,1) to 0 (0,1), p = .03) while other histologic scores remained stable. There was no significant change in proteinuria or DSA titers post-treatment with tocilizumab. CONCLUSIONS Treatment of CAAMR with tocilizumab was associated with a decrease in the rate of eGFR decline and a reduction in interstitial inflammation scores in patients with CAAMR.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shelief Robbins-Juarez
- Department of Internal Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Shefali Patel
- Division of Nephrology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Vaqar Shah
- Department of Medicine, SUNY University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Katherine Toma
- Jersey Coast Nephrology and Hypertension Associates, Brick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Hilda Fernandez
- Division of Nephrology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Geoffrey K Dube
- Division of Nephrology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Kristen King
- Division of Nephrology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Sumit Mohan
- Division of Nephrology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Syed Ali Husain
- Division of Nephrology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Heather Morris
- Division of Nephrology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Russell John Crew
- Division of Nephrology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
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27
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Townamchai N, Avihingsanon Y. Updated management for antibody-mediated rejection: opportunity to prolong kidney allograft survival. Curr Opin Nephrol Hypertens 2023; 32:13-9. [PMID: 36250450 DOI: 10.1097/MNH.0000000000000843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Antibody-mediated rejection (ABMR) is an important barrier to achieve long-term kidney allograft survival. Human leukocyte antibody (HLA)-incompatibility and ABO-incompatibility are the two main mechanisms of ABMR. Nevertheless, the advances in managing ABMR have changed the paradigm for kidney transplantation. This review aimed to emphasize the HLA-incompatibility and ABO-incompatibility kidney transplant and update the management of ABMR. RECENT FINDINGS HLA-incompatibility kidney transplantation is a strong risk factor for ABMR. Donor-specific antibody (DSA) is a surrogate biomarker that prevents long-term allograft survival. The standard treatment for ABMR has unfavorable results. New drugs that target the B cell are a promising approach to treat ABMR. In the past, ABO-incompatibility kidney donor was an absolute contraindication but now, it is widely accepted as an alternative organ resource. The advancement of ABO antibody removal and B-cell depletion therapy has been successfully developed. ABO isoagglutination remains the main biomarker for monitoring ABMR during the transplantation process. C4d staining without inflammation of the kidney allograft is the marker for the accommodation process. SUMMARY With the shortage of organ donors, transplant experts have expanded the organ resources and learned how to overcome the immunological barriers by using novel biomarkers and developing new treatments that support long-term graft survival.
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28
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Yeh H. Applications of Transcriptomics in the Research of Antibody-Mediated Rejection in Kidney Transplantation: Progress and Perspectives. Organogenesis 2022; 18:2131357. [PMID: 36259540 PMCID: PMC9586696 DOI: 10.1080/15476278.2022.2131357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Antibody-mediated rejection (ABMR) is the major cause of chronic allograft dysfunction and loss in kidney transplantation. The immunological mechanisms of ABMR that have been featured in the latest studies indicate a highly complex interplay between various immune and nonimmune cell types. Clinical diagnostic standards have long been criticized for being arbitrary and the lack of accuracy. Transcriptomic approaches, including microarray and RNA sequencing of allograft biopsies, enable the identification of differential gene expression and the continuous improvement of diagnostics. Given that conventional bulk transcriptomic approaches only reflect the average gene expression but not the status at the single-cell level, thereby ignoring the heterogeneity of the transcriptome across individual cells, single-cell RNA sequencing is rising as a powerful tool to provide a high-resolution transcriptome map of immune cells, which allows the elucidation of the pathogenesis and may facilitate the development of novel strategies for clinical treatment of ABMR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsuan Yeh
- Division of Renal-Electrolyte, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA,CONTACT Hsuan Yeh S976 Scaife Hall 3550 Terrace Street Pittsburgh, PA 15261
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29
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Nickerson PW, Böhmig GA, Chadban S, Kumar D, Mannon RB, van Gelder T, Lee JC, Adler S, Chong E, Djamali A. Clazakizumab for the treatment of chronic active antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) in kidney transplant recipients: Phase 3 IMAGINE study rationale and design. Trials 2022; 23:1042. [PMID: 36550562 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-022-06897-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic active antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) is a major cause of graft loss with no approved drugs for its treatment. Currently, off-label regimens are used, reflecting the high unmet need for effective therapies based on well-controlled trials. Clazakizumab is a high-affinity, humanized monoclonal antibody that binds interleukin-6 and decreases donor-specific antibody (DSA) production and inflammation. Phase 2 pilot studies of clazakizumab in kidney transplant recipients with chronic active AMR suggest modulation of DSA, stabilization of glomerular filtration rate (GFR), and a manageable safety profile. We report the design of the Phase 3 IMAGINE study (NCT03744910) to evaluate the safety and efficacy of clazakizumab for the treatment of chronic active AMR. METHODS IMAGINE is a multicenter, double-blind trial of approximately 350 kidney transplant recipients with chronic active AMR (Banff chronic glomerulopathy [cg] >0 with concurrent positive human leukocyte antigen DSA) randomized 1:1 to receive clazakizumab or placebo (12.5 mg subcutaneous once every 4 weeks). The event-driven trial design will follow patients until 221 occurrences of all-cause graft loss are observed, defined as return to dialysis, graft nephrectomy, re-transplantation, estimated GFR (eGFR) <15 mL/min/1.73m2, or death from any cause. A surrogate for graft loss (eGFR slope) will be assessed at 1 year based on prior modeling validation. Secondary endpoints will include measures of pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics. Recruitment is ongoing across North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. DISCUSSION IMAGINE represents the first Phase 3 clinical trial investigating the safety and efficacy of clazakizumab in kidney transplant recipients with chronic active AMR, and the largest placebo-controlled trial in this patient population. This trial includes prognostic biomarker enrichment and uniquely utilizes the eGFR slope at 1 year as a surrogate endpoint for graft loss, which may accelerate the approval of a novel therapy for patients at risk of graft loss. The findings of this study will be fundamental in helping to address the unmet need for novel therapies for chronic active AMR. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03744910 . Registered on November 19, 2018.
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30
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Jaiswal A, Bell J, DeFilippis EM, Kransdorf EP, Patel J, Kobashigawa JA, Kittleson MM, Baran DA. Assessment and management of allosensitization following heart transplant in adults. J Heart Lung Transplant 2022; 42:423-432. [PMID: 36702686 DOI: 10.1016/j.healun.2022.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunological injury to the allograft, specifically by antibodies to de novo donor specific human leukocyte antigen (dnDSA) and antibody mediated injury and rejection are the major limitations to graft survival after heart transplantation (HT). As such, our approach to allosensitization remains limited by the inability of contemporaneous immunoassays to unravel pathogenic potential of dnDSA. Additionally, the role of dnDSA is continuously evaluated with emerging methods to detect rejection. Moreover, the timing and frequency of dnDSA monitoring for early detection and risk mitigation as well as management of dnDSA remain challenging. A strategic approach to dnDSA employs diagnostic assays to determine relevant antibodies in conjunction with clinical presentation and injury/rejection of allograft to tailor therapeutics. In this review, we aim to outline contemporary knowledge involving detection, monitoring and management of dnDSA after HT. Subsequently, we propose a diagnostic and therapeutic approach that may mitigate morbidity and mortality while balancing adverse reactions from pharmacotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Jaiswal
- Hartford HealthCare Heart and Vascular Institute, Hartford Hospital, Hartford, Connecticut.
| | - Jennifer Bell
- Hartford HealthCare Heart and Vascular Institute, Hartford Hospital, Hartford, Connecticut
| | - Ersilia M DeFilippis
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Evan P Kransdorf
- Division of Cardiology, Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Jignesh Patel
- Division of Cardiology, Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Jon A Kobashigawa
- Division of Cardiology, Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Michelle M Kittleson
- Division of Cardiology, Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - David A Baran
- Cleveland Clinic, Heart, Vascular and Thoracic Institute, Advanced Heart Failure Program, Weston, Florida
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31
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Chandran S, Tang Q. Impact of interleukin-6 on T cells in kidney transplant recipients. Am J Transplant 2022; 22 Suppl 4:18-27. [PMID: 36453710 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.17209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Interleukin-6 (IL-6), a multifunctional proinflammatory cytokine, plays a key role in T cell activation, survival, and differentiation. Acting as a switch that induces the differentiation of naïve T cells into Th17 cells and inhibits their development into regulatory T cells, IL-6 promotes rejection and abrogates tolerance. Therapies that target IL-6 signaling include antibodies to IL-6 and the IL-6 receptor and inhibitors of janus kinases; several of these therapeutics have demonstrated robust clinical efficacy in autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Clinical trials of IL-6 inhibition in kidney transplantation have focused primarily on its effects on B cells, plasma cells, and HLA antibodies. In this review, we summarize the impact of IL-6 on T cells in experimental models of transplant and describe the effects of IL-6 inhibition on the T cell compartment in kidney transplant recipients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sindhu Chandran
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Qizhi Tang
- Department of Surgery, Diabetes Center, Gladstone-UCSF Institute of Genome Immunology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
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32
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Lion J, Maitre ML, de Truchis C, Taupin JL, Poussin K, Haziot A, Chong E, Glotz D, Mooney N. Restriction of interleukin-6 alters endothelial cell immunogenicity in an allogenic environment. Clin Transplant 2022; 36:e14815. [PMID: 36114597 DOI: 10.1111/ctr.14815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The microvascular endothelium of the renal transplant is the first site of graft interaction with the host immune system and is often injured in chronic Antibody Mediated Rejection (AMR). Microvascular inflammation is an independent determinant of AMR and heightens endothelial expression of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) molecules thereby increasing the possibility of Donor Specific Antibody (DSA) binding. Endothelial cells (ECs) produce IL-6 in the steady-state that is increased by inflammation or by HLA-DR antibody binding in an allogeneic setting. Because IL-6 has been implicated in AMR, IL-6 blockade is currently under investigation as a therapeutic target. To further understand the role of IL-6 in EC immunogenicity, we have examined whether humanized antibody blockade of IL-6 altered EC interactions with allogeneic PBMC and after anti-HLA or DSA binding to ECs in an in vitro human experimental model. Soluble factors, endothelial phenotype, Stat-3 activation, CD4+ -T differentiation and C4d deposition were examined. Blockade of IL-6 reduced EC secretion of IL-6 and of the monocyte chemoattractant MCP-1. Pre-activation of ECs by anti-HLA or DSA binding increased IL-6 secretion, that was further increased by concurrent binding of both antibodies and this was inhibited by IL-6 blockade. Activation of Stat-3 in CD4+ -T mediated by soluble factors produced in endothelial-PBMC interactions, and endothelial differentiation of CD4+ -T cell subsets (Th1, Treg), were impaired whereas activation of Complement by anti-HLA antibody binding remained unchanged by IL-6 blockade. Together, these data identify EC-mediated pro-inflammatory responses (T cell expansion, EC auto-activation, chemokine secretion) targeted by IL-6 blockade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julien Lion
- INSERM U976, Institut de Recherche Saint Louis, Paris, France
| | | | | | - Jean-Luc Taupin
- INSERM U976, Institut de Recherche Saint Louis, Paris, France
| | - Karine Poussin
- INSERM U976, Institut de Recherche Saint Louis, Paris, France
| | - Alain Haziot
- INSERM U976, Institut de Recherche Saint Louis, Paris, France.,Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | | | - Denis Glotz
- INSERM U976, Institut de Recherche Saint Louis, Paris, France.,Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Nuala Mooney
- INSERM U976, Institut de Recherche Saint Louis, Paris, France.,Université de Paris, Paris, France
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33
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Velleca A, Shullo MA, Dhital K, Azeka E, Colvin M, DePasquale E, Farrero M, García-Guereta L, Jamero G, Khush K, Lavee J, Pouch S, Patel J, Michaud CJ, Shullo M, Schubert S, Angelini A, Carlos L, Mirabet S, Patel J, Pham M, Urschel S, Kim KH, Miyamoto S, Chih S, Daly K, Grossi P, Jennings D, Kim IC, Lim HS, Miller T, Potena L, Velleca A, Eisen H, Bellumkonda L, Danziger-Isakov L, Dobbels F, Harkess M, Kim D, Lyster H, Peled Y, Reinhardt Z. The International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT) Guidelines for the Care of Heart Transplant Recipients. J Heart Lung Transplant 2022; 42:e1-e141. [PMID: 37080658 DOI: 10.1016/j.healun.2022.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
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34
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Jordan SC, Ammerman N, Huang E, Vo A. Importance of IL-6 inhibition in prevention and treatment of antibody-mediated rejection in kidney allografts. Am J Transplant 2022; 22 Suppl 4:28-37. [PMID: 36453709 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.17207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a cytokine critical for innate and adaptive immune responses. However, persistent expression of high levels of IL-6 are associated with a number of pathologic conditions including autoimmune diseases and capillary leak syndrome. Importantly, in kidney transplant patients, IL-6 may play a role in mediation of cell-mediated rejection (CMR) and antibody-mediated rejection (AMR). This is likely due to the importance of IL-6 in stimulating B cell responses with pathogenic donor-specific antibody (DSA) generation and stimulation of T effector cell responses while inhibiting T regulatory cells. Data from preliminary clinical trials and clinical observations show that tocilizumab (anti-IL-6R) and clazakizumab (anti-IL-6) may have promise in treatment of CMR, AMR and chronic (cAMR). This has led to a phase 3 placebo, randomized clinical trial of clazakizumab for treatment of cAMR, a condition for which there is currently no treatment. The identification of IL-6 production in vascular endothelia cells after alloimmune activation reveals another potential pathway for vasculitis as endothelia cell IL-6 may stimulate immune cell responses that are potentially inhibitable with anti-IL-6/IL-6R treatment. Importantly, anti-IL-6/IL-6R treatments have shown the ability to induce Treg and Breg cells in vivo which may have potential importance for prevention and treatment of DSA development and allograft rejection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stanley C Jordan
- Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, West Hollywood, California, USA
| | - Noriko Ammerman
- Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, West Hollywood, California, USA
| | - Edmund Huang
- Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, West Hollywood, California, USA
| | - Ashley Vo
- Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, West Hollywood, California, USA
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35
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Velleca A, Shullo MA, Dhital K, Azeka E, Colvin M, DePasquale E, Farrero M, García-Guereta L, Jamero G, Khush K, Lavee J, Pouch S, Patel J, Michaud CJ, Shullo M, Schubert S, Angelini A, Carlos L, Mirabet S, Patel J, Pham M, Urschel S, Kim KH, Miyamoto S, Chih S, Daly K, Grossi P, Jennings D, Kim IC, Lim HS, Miller T, Potena L, Velleca A, Eisen H, Bellumkonda L, Danziger-Isakov L, Dobbels F, Harkess M, Kim D, Lyster H, Peled Y, Reinhardt Z. The International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT) Guidelines for the Care of Heart Transplant Recipients. J Heart Lung Transplant 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.healun.2022.09.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
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36
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Miller CL, Madsen JC. Targeting IL-6 to prevent cardiac allograft rejection. Am J Transplant 2022; 22 Suppl 4:12-17. [PMID: 36453706 PMCID: PMC10191185 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.17206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Outcomes following heart transplantation remain suboptimal with acute and chronic rejection being major contributors to poor long-term survival. IL-6 is increasingly recognized as a critical pro-inflammatory cytokine involved in allograft injury and has been shown to play a key role in regulating the inflammatory and alloimmune responses following heart transplantation. Therapies that inhibit IL-6 signaling have emerged as promising strategies to prevent allograft rejection. Here, we review experimental and pre-clinical evidence that supports the potential use of IL-6 signaling blockade to improve outcomes in heart transplant recipients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia L. Miller
- Center for Transplantation Sciences, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Joren C. Madsen
- Center for Transplantation Sciences, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Cardiac Surgery, Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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37
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Anwar IJ, Ezekian B, DeLaura I, Manook M, Schroder P, Yoon J, Curfman V, Branum E, Messina J, Harnois M, Permar SR, Farris AB, Kwun J, Knechtle SJ. Addition of interleukin-6 receptor blockade to carfilzomib-based desensitization in a highly sensitized nonhuman primate model. Am J Transplant 2022; 22 Suppl 4:1-11. [PMID: 36239200 PMCID: PMC9722597 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.17208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Sensitized patients, those who had prior exposure to foreign human leukocyte antigens, are transplanted at lower rates due to challenges in finding suitable organs. Desensitization strategies have permitted highly sensitized patients to undergo kidney transplantation, albeit with higher rates of rejection. This study assesses targeting plasma cell and interleukin (IL)-6 receptor for desensitization in a sensitized nonhuman primate kidney transplantation model. All animals were sensitized using two sequential skin transplants from maximally major histocompatibility complex-mismatched donors. Carfilzomib (CFZ)/tocilizumab (TCZ) desensitization (N = 6) successfully decreased donor-specific antibody (DSA) titers and prevented the expansion of B cells compared to CFZ monotherapy (N = 3). Dual desensitization further delayed, but did not prevent humoral rebound, as evidenced by a delayed increase in post-kidney transplant DSA titers. Accordingly, CFZ/TCZ desensitization conferred a significant survival advantage over CFZ monotherapy. A trend toward increased T follicular helper cells was also observed in the dual therapy group along the same timeline as an increase in DSA and subsequent graft loss. Cytomegalovirus reactivation also occurred in the CFZ/TCZ group but was prevented with ganciclovir prophylaxis. In accordance with prior studies of CFZ-based dual desensitization strategies, the addition of IL-6 receptor blockade resulted in desensitization with further suppression of posttransplant humoral response compared to CFZ monotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imran J Anwar
- Duke Transplant Center, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710
| | - Brian Ezekian
- Duke Transplant Center, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710
| | - Isabel DeLaura
- Duke Transplant Center, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710
| | - Miriam Manook
- Duke Transplant Center, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710
| | - Paul Schroder
- Duke Transplant Center, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710
| | - Janghoon Yoon
- Duke Transplant Center, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710
| | - Verna Curfman
- Duke Transplant Center, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710
| | - Evelyn Branum
- Duke Transplant Center, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710
| | - Julia Messina
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710
| | - Melissa Harnois
- Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710
| | - Sallie R. Permar
- Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710
| | - Alton B. Farris
- Department of Pathology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322
| | - Jean Kwun
- Duke Transplant Center, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710
| | - Stuart J. Knechtle
- Duke Transplant Center, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710
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38
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Nickerson PW. Rationale for the IMAGINE study for chronic active antibody-mediated rejection (caAMR) in kidney transplantation. Am J Transplant 2022; 22 Suppl 4:38-44. [PMID: 36453707 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.17210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Chronic active antibody-mediated rejection (caAMR) in kidney transplantation is a major cause of late graft loss and despite all efforts to date, there is no proven effective therapy. Indeed, the Transplant Society (TTS) consensus opinion called for a conservative approach optimizing baseline immunosuppression and supportive care focused on blood pressure, blood glucose, and lipid control. This review provides the rationale and early evidence in kidney transplant recipients with caAMR that supported the design of the IMAGINE study whose goal is to evaluate the potential impact of targeting the IL6/IL6R pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter W Nickerson
- Department of Internal Medicine, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.,Department of Immunology, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
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39
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Abstract
Immunosuppressive agents have enabled the development of allogenic transplantation during the last 40 years, allowing considerable improvement in graft survival. However, several issues remain such as the nephrotoxicity of calcineurin inhibitors, the cornerstone of immunosuppressive regimens and/or the higher risk of opportunistic infections and cancers. Most immunosuppressive agents target T cell activation and may not be efficient enough to prevent allo-immunization in the long term. Finally, antibody mediated rejection due to donor specific antibodies strongly affects allograft survival. Many drugs have been tested in the last decades, but very few have come to clinical use. The most recent one is CTLA4-Ig (belatacept), a costimulation blockade molecule that targets the second signal of T cell activation and is associated with a better long term kidney function than calcineurin inhibitors, despite an increased risk of acute cellular rejection. The research of new maintenance long-term immunosuppressive agents focuses on costimulation blockade. Agents inhibiting CD40-CD40 ligand interaction may enable a good control of both T cells and B cells responses. Anti-CD28 antibodies may promote regulatory T cells. Agents targeting this costimulation pathways are currently evaluated in clinical trials. Immunosuppressive agents for ABMR treatment are scarce since anti-CD20 agent rituximab and proteasome inhibitor bortezomib have failed to demonstrate an interest in ABMR. New drugs focusing on antibodies removal (imlifidase), B cell and plasmablasts (anti-IL-6/IL-6R, anti-CD38…) and complement inhibition are in the pipeline, with the challenge of their evaluation in such a heterogeneous pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delphine Kervella
- CHU Nantes, Nantes Université, Service de Néphrologie et d'immunologie clinique, ITUN, Nantes, France; Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Inserm, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, F-44000 Nantes, France
| | - Gilles Blancho
- CHU Nantes, Nantes Université, Service de Néphrologie et d'immunologie clinique, ITUN, Nantes, France; Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Inserm, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, F-44000 Nantes, France.
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40
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Yue W, Liu J, Li X, Wang L, Li J. Memory B cells and long-lived plasma cells in AMR. Ren Fail 2022; 44:1604-1614. [PMID: 36190837 PMCID: PMC9542532 DOI: 10.1080/0886022x.2022.2128374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) has a strongly negative impact on long-term renal allograft survival. Currently, no recognized effective treatments are available, especially for chronic antibody-mediated rejection (CAMR). Donor-specific antibodies (DSAs) secreted by long-lived plasma cells and memory B cells are acknowledged as biomarkers of AMR. Nevertheless, it may be too late for the DSA routine examination production since DSAs may have binded to graft vascular endothelial cells through complement-dependent or complement-independent pathways. Therefore, methods to effectively monitor memory B cells and long-lived plasma cells and subsequently prevent DSA production are key to reducing the adverse effects of AMR. Therefore, this review mainly summarizes the production pathways of memory B cells and long-lived plasma cells and provides suggestions for the prevention of AMR after transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenlong Yue
- Kidney Transplantation Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jia Liu
- Dietetics Teaching and Research Section, Henan Medical College, Xinzheng, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaohu Li
- Kidney Transplantation Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Luman Wang
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinfeng Li
- Kidney Transplantation Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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41
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Weinhard J, Noble J, Jouve T, Malvezzi P, Rostaing L. [Improving access to kidney transplantation for highly sensitized patients: What place for IL-6 pathway blockade in desensitization protocols?]. Nephrol Ther 2022; 18:577-583. [PMID: 36328901 DOI: 10.1016/j.nephro.2022.07.402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Desensitization allows kidney transplantation for HLA highly sensitized subjects. Due to the central role of IL-6 in immunological response, tocilizumab (monoclonal antibody directed against IL-6 receptor) could probably improve desensitization efficacy. METHODS Pubmed systematic review by using MeSH terms: tocilizumab, clazakizumab, interleukin-6 blockade, kidney transplantation, kidney graft and desensitization. STUDIES IL-6 plays a role in humoral response (plasmocyte differentiation induced by lymphocyte T, IL-21 secretion) as well as in cellular response (differentiation of LT Th17 rather than T reg). In desensitization field, tocilizumab was first studied as second-line treatment after failing of standard-of-care (apheresis, rituximab ± IgIV). Recent study showed that tocilizumab as a monotherapy attenuated anti-HLA antibodies rates but was not sufficient to allow transplantation. However, lymphocyte immunophenotyping showed that tocilizumab hindered B cells maturation. Thereby, tocilizumab could improve long-term efficacy of desensitization, by limiting the anti-HLA rebound and so avoiding antibody-mediated rejection. This hypothesis is supported by a recent study which used clazakizumab (monoclonal antibody directed against IL-6) in association with standard-of-care. In that study, clazakizumab was continued after kidney transplantation. Results were encouraging because 9/10 patients were transplanted and there was no donor-specific antibody at 6 months post-transplantation. CONCLUSION IL-6 pathway blockade as a monotherapy fails to desensitize HLA highly sensitized kidney transplant candidates. In association with standard-of-care, it does not seem to significatively improve kidney allograft access (short-term efficacy) vs. standard-of-care only. However, it could improve long-term prognosis of HLA incompatible transplantation by orienting the response towards a tolerogenic profile, by hindering B-cell maturation and, thereby, avoiding DSA rebounds after transplantation. This hypothesis needs to be proven by further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jules Weinhard
- Service de néphrologie, hémodialyse, aphérèses et transplantation rénale, CHU de Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Johan Noble
- Service de néphrologie, hémodialyse, aphérèses et transplantation rénale, CHU de Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Thomas Jouve
- Service de néphrologie, hémodialyse, aphérèses et transplantation rénale, CHU de Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble, France; Université Grenoble-Alpes, GrenobleFrance
| | - Paolo Malvezzi
- Service de néphrologie, hémodialyse, aphérèses et transplantation rénale, CHU de Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Lionel Rostaing
- Service de néphrologie, hémodialyse, aphérèses et transplantation rénale, CHU de Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble, France; Université Grenoble-Alpes, GrenobleFrance.
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42
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Bouchet A, Muller B, Olagne J, Barba T, Joly M, Obrecht A, Rabeyrin M, Dijoud F, Picard C, Mezaache S, Sicard A, Koenig A, Parissiadis A, Dubois V, Morelon E, Caillard S, Thaunat O. Evolution of humoral lesions on follow-up biopsy stratifies the risk for renal graft loss after antibody-mediated rejection treatment. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2022; 37:2555-2568. [PMID: 35675302 DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gfac192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The standard-of-care protocol, based on plasma exchanges, high-dose intravenous immunoglobulin and optimization of maintenance immunosuppression, can slow down the evolution of antibody-mediated rejection (AMR), but with high interindividual variability. Identification of a reliable predictive tool of the response to AMR treatment is a mandatory step for personalization of the follow-up strategy and to guide second-line therapies. METHODS Interrogation of the electronic databases of 2 French university hospitals (Lyon and Strasbourg) retrospectively identified 81 renal transplant recipients diagnosed with AMR without chronic lesions (cg score ≤1) at diagnosis and for whom a follow-up biopsy had been performed 3-6 months after initiation of therapy. RESULTS The evolution of humoral lesions on follow-up biopsy (disappearance versus persistence versus progression) correlated with the risk for allograft loss (logrank test, P = .001). Patients with disappearance of humoral lesions had ∼80% graft survival at 10 years. The hazard ratio for graft loss in multivariate analysis was 3.91 (P = .04) and 5.15 (P = .02) for patients with persistence and progression of lesions, respectively. The non-invasive parameters classically used to follow the intensity of humoral alloimmune response (evolution of immunodominant DSA mean fluorescence intensity) and the decline of renal graft function (estimated glomerular filtration rate decrease and persistent proteinuria) showed little clinical value to predict the histological response to AMR therapy. CONCLUSION We conclude that invasive monitoring of the evolution of humoral lesions by the mean of follow-up biopsy performed 3-6 months after the initiation of therapy is an interesting tool to predict long-term outcome after AMR treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonin Bouchet
- Service de Transplantation, Néphrologie et Immunologie Clinique, Hôpital Edouard Herriot, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France.,Unité de Formation et de Recherche de Médecine Lyon Est, Université Claude-Bernard Lyon I, Lyon, France
| | - Brieuc Muller
- Service de Néphrologie et Transplantation, Les Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Jerome Olagne
- Service de Néphrologie et Transplantation, Les Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Thomas Barba
- Unité de Formation et de Recherche de Médecine Lyon Est, Université Claude-Bernard Lyon I, Lyon, France.,Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1111, Lyon, France
| | - Mélanie Joly
- Service de Néphrologie et Transplantation, Les Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Augustin Obrecht
- Service de Néphrologie et Transplantation, Les Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Maud Rabeyrin
- Institut de Pathologie Multisite, Groupement Hospitalier Est, Bron, France
| | - Frédérique Dijoud
- Institut de Pathologie Multisite, Groupement Hospitalier Est, Bron, France
| | - Cécile Picard
- Institut de Pathologie Multisite, Groupement Hospitalier Est, Bron, France
| | - Sarah Mezaache
- Service de Transplantation, Néphrologie et Immunologie Clinique, Hôpital Edouard Herriot, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France.,Unité de Formation et de Recherche de Médecine Lyon Est, Université Claude-Bernard Lyon I, Lyon, France
| | - Antoine Sicard
- Service de Transplantation, Néphrologie et Immunologie Clinique, Hôpital Edouard Herriot, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France.,Unité de Formation et de Recherche de Médecine Lyon Est, Université Claude-Bernard Lyon I, Lyon, France
| | - Alice Koenig
- Service de Transplantation, Néphrologie et Immunologie Clinique, Hôpital Edouard Herriot, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France.,Unité de Formation et de Recherche de Médecine Lyon Est, Université Claude-Bernard Lyon I, Lyon, France.,Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1111, Lyon, France
| | - Anne Parissiadis
- Laboratoire d'Histocompatibilité, Etablissement Français du Sang, Strasbourg, France
| | - Valérie Dubois
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1111, Lyon, France.,Laboratoire d'Histocompatibilité, Etablissement Français du Sang, Lyon, France
| | - Emmanuel Morelon
- Service de Transplantation, Néphrologie et Immunologie Clinique, Hôpital Edouard Herriot, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France.,Unité de Formation et de Recherche de Médecine Lyon Est, Université Claude-Bernard Lyon I, Lyon, France.,Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1111, Lyon, France
| | - Sophie Caillard
- Service de Néphrologie et Transplantation, Les Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Olivier Thaunat
- Service de Transplantation, Néphrologie et Immunologie Clinique, Hôpital Edouard Herriot, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France.,Unité de Formation et de Recherche de Médecine Lyon Est, Université Claude-Bernard Lyon I, Lyon, France.,Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1111, Lyon, France
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW Antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) is the leading cause of kidney graft loss. Very few treatment options are available to the clinician to counter this disease process. In this review we describe the available therapeutics and the novel approaches that are being currently developed. RECENT FINDINGS AMR treatment requires a multidrug approach. Imlifidase, a new immunoglobulin G cleaving agent, may prove to be the perfect replacement of apheresis. New complement blockers other than eculizumab are in development in order to block acute kidney damage in the delicate phase following antibody removal. Plasma cell depletion is being explored in chronic AMR: studies are in progress with daratumumab and felzartamab. Interleukin 6 inhibition is generating enthusiasm in the chronic setting with preliminary encouraging results. SUMMARY In acute AMR, the clinicians will have to remove the antibodies, avoid rebound and block specific damage effectors. In chronic AMR they will need to reduce the inflammatory response induced by donor specific antibodies. New drugs are available and transplant physicians are starting to develop effective multidrug strategies to counter the complex disease mechanisms. Safety of these drugs needs to be further explored especially when used together with other potent immunosuppressive drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Malvezzi
- University Grenoble Alpes - CHU Grenoble Alpes - Service de Néphrologie, Dialyse, Aphérèses et Transplantation, Grenoble, France
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) has emerged as the leading cause of late graft loss in kidney transplant recipients. Donor-specific antibodies are an independent risk factor for AMR and graft loss. However, not all donor-specific antibodies are pathogenic. AMR treatment is heterogeneous due to the lack of robust trials to support clinical decisions. This review provides an overview and comments on practical but relevant dilemmas physicians experience in managing kidney transplant recipients with AMR. RECENT FINDINGS Active AMR with donor-specific antibodies may be treated with plasmapheresis, intravenous immunoglobulin and corticosteroids with additional therapies considered on a case-by-case basis. On the contrary, no treatment has been shown to be effective against chronic active AMR. Various biomarkers and prediction models to assess the individual risk of graft failure and response to rejection treatment show promise. SUMMARY The ability to personalize management for a given kidney transplant recipient and identify treatments that will improve their long-term outcome remains a critical unmet need. Earlier identification of AMR with noninvasive biomarkers and prediction models to assess the individual risk of graft failure should be considered. Enrolling patients with AMR in clinical trials to assess novel therapeutic agents is highly encouraged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Rodriguez-Ramirez
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology
- Ajmera Transplant Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ayman Al Jurdi
- Division of Nephrology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School
- Center for Transplantation Sciences, Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ana Konvalinka
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology
- Ajmera Transplant Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto
- Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Leonardo V. Riella
- Division of Nephrology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School
- Center for Transplantation Sciences, Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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45
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van Vugt LK, Schagen MR, de Weerd A, Reinders ME, de Winter BC, Hesselink DA. Investigational drugs for the treatment of kidney transplant rejection. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2022; 31:1087-1100. [PMID: 36175360 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2022.2130751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Kidney transplant rejection remains an important clinical problem despite the development of effective immunosuppressive drug combination therapy. Two major types of rejection are recognized, namely T-cell-mediated rejection (TCMR) and antibody-mediated rejection (ABMR), which have a different pathophysiology and are treated differently. Unfortunately, long-term outcomes of both TCMR and ABMR remain unsatisfactory despite current therapy. Hence, alternative therapeutic drugs are urgently needed. AREAS COVERED This review covers novel and investigational drugs for the pharmacological treatment of kidney transplant rejection. Potential therapeutic strategies and future directions are discussed. EXPERT OPINION The development of alternative pharmacologic treatment of rejection has focused mostly on ABMR, since this is the leading cause of kidney allograft loss and currently lacks an effective, evidence-based therapy. At present, there is insufficient high-quality evidence for any of the covered investigational drugs to support their use in ABMR. However, with the emergence of targeted therapies, this potential arises for individualized treatment strategies. In order to generate more high-quality evidence for such strategies and overcome the obstacles of classic, randomized, controlled trials, we advocate the implementation of adaptive trial designs and surrogate clinical endpoints. We believe such adaptive trial designs could help to understand the risks and benefits of promising drugs such as tocilizumab, clazakizumab, belimumab, and imlifidase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas K van Vugt
- Erasmus MC Transplant Institute, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology and Transplantation, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Maaike R Schagen
- Erasmus MC Transplant Institute, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology and Transplantation, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Annelies de Weerd
- Erasmus MC Transplant Institute, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology and Transplantation, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marlies Ej Reinders
- Erasmus MC Transplant Institute, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology and Transplantation, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Brenda Cm de Winter
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Dennis A Hesselink
- Erasmus MC Transplant Institute, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology and Transplantation, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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46
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Etxebarria A, Díez-martín E, Astigarraga E, Barreda-gómez G. Role of the Immune System in Renal Transplantation, Types of Response, Technical Approaches and Current Challenges. Immuno 2022; 2:548-570. [DOI: 10.3390/immuno2040035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Advances over the last decades have made renal transplantation an important therapy for patients with end-stage renal disease, as the incidences of acute rejection and short-term transplant loss have been significantly reduced. However, long-term transplant survival remains a challenge in the renal transplantation community. The main causes of long-term graft loss are acute and chronic rejection, as well as the complications related to immunosuppression therapy. In spite of the breakthroughs achieved in recent years, histology is the gold standard technique to confirm the activation of the immune system against the graft with all the ensuing problems that taking biopsies brings to immunosuppressed patients. For this reason, several assays have been developed to try to monitor the immune function, but they show serious constraints owing to the fact that they require substantial laboratory work, they are not clinically available and they provide controversial results, so the combination of multiple assays is often needed to obtain a reliable diagnosis. Thus, the aim of this review is to perform a retrospective study of the immune system in renal transplantation, with special emphasis on the cutting-edge technological developments for monitoring, classification and early detection of rejection episodes in order to contribute to a better adjustment of immunosuppressive therapies and, hence, to a more personalized medicine that improves the quality of life of patients.
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Chamoun B, Sánchez-Sancho P, Torres IB, Gabaldon A, Perelló M, Sellarés J, Moreso F, Serón D. Tocilizumab in the treatment of active chronic humoral rejection resistant to standard therapy. Nefrologia 2022; 42:578-584. [PMID: 36717307 DOI: 10.1016/j.nefroe.2021.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/18/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is no consensus on the most appropriate treatment for chronic active antibody-mediated rejection (cAMR). Recent studies suggest that treatment with tocilizumab (TCZ) may stabilize graft function, decrease the intensity of donor-specific HLA antibodies (DSAs) and reduce inflammation of microcirculation. PATIENTS AND METHODS Observational study with renal allograft recipients diagnosed with cAMR (n = 5) who had not submitted a response to traditional treatment based on the combination of plasma replacements, immunoglobulins, and rituximab. Patients were told to be treated with TCZ as compassionate use in six doses per month (8 mg/kg/month). Renal function, proteinuria, and the intensity of DSAs were monitored during follow-up. RESULTS Five patients, average age 60 ± 13 years, three male and two retrasplants (cPRA average 55%) with preformed DSAs. Treatment with TCZ was initiated within 47 ± 52 days of biopsy. In two cases treatment was discontinued after the first dose, by severe bicitopenia with cytomegalovirus viremia and by graft failure, respectively. In the three patients who completed treatment, no stability of renal function (serum creatinine from 1.73 ± 0.70 to 2.04 ± 0.52 mg/dL, e-FGR 4 6 ± 15 to 36 ± 16 mL/min), showed increased proteinuria (3.2 ± 4.0 to 6.9 ± 11.0 g/g) and the intensity of DSAs maintain stable. No changes were observed in the degree of inflammation of microcirculation (g+pt 4.2 ± 0.8 vs. 4.3 ± 1.0) or in the degree of transplant glomerulopathy (cg 1.2 ± 0.4 vs. 1.8 ± 1.0). CONCLUSIONS TCZ therapy does not appear to be effective in modifying the natural history of chronic active antibody-mediated rejection, does not improve the degree of inflammation of microcirculation and does not reduces the intensity of DSAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Betty Chamoun
- Servicio de Nefrología, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Pablo Sánchez-Sancho
- Servicio de Farmacia, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Irina B Torres
- Servicio de Nefrología, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Alejandra Gabaldon
- Servicio de Patología, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Manel Perelló
- Servicio de Nefrología, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Joana Sellarés
- Servicio de Nefrología, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Francesc Moreso
- Servicio de Nefrología, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Daniel Serón
- Servicio de Nefrología, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Aziz F, Parajuli S, Jorgenson M, Garg N, Manchala V, Yousif E, Mandelbrot D, Hidalgo L, Mohamed M, Zhong W, Djamali A. Chronic Active Antibody-mediated Rejection in Kidney Transplant Recipients: Treatment Response Rates and Value of Early Surveillance Biopsies. Transplant Direct 2022; 8:e1360. [PMID: 35935024 DOI: 10.1097/TXD.0000000000001360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
There is limited information on the value of short-term invasive and noninvasive monitoring in kidney transplant recipients (KTR) undergoing therapy for chronic active antibody-mediated rejection (cAMR). Methods We describe response rates in patients with cAMR receiving pulse steroids/IVIG ± rituximab 3-mo after index biopsy. Results The study included 82 consecutive KTR. Mean time from transplant to cAMR was 10 y. Mean peritubular capillaritis (ptc), glomerulitis (g), microvascular inflammation (MVI), C4d, and cg Banff scores were 1.1, 2.1, 3.2, 0.2, and 2, respectively. Mean estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and urine protein creatinine (UPC) ratio were 38 mL/min and 1.6 g/g, respectively. Thirty (37%) patients lost their allograft during the mean follow-up of 2.4 y. In patients treated with pulse steroids/IVIG (n = 41), response rates for eGFR, UPC, donor-specific antibodies (DSAs), and MVI were 27%, 49%, 7%, and 19%, respectively. In the pulse steroids/IVIG/rituximab group, response rates were 66%, 61%, 20%, and 69%, respectively. Univariate analysis identified response in eGFR (HR = 0.03; P = 0.001; 95% CI, 0.004-0.26), UPC (HR = 0.38; P = 0.01; 95% CI, 0.18-0.82), and DSA (HR = 0.11; P = 0.004; 95% CI, 0.02-0.49) as predictors of graft survival. Multivariate analysis only retained eGFR response (HR = 0.12; P = 0.01; 95% CI, 0.02-0.64). Conclusions In cAMR, short-term response to treatment for kidney function and DSA was associated with graft survival, but the role of early surveillance biopsies needs further evaluation.
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49
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Chamoun B, Sánchez-Sancho P, Torres IB, Gabaldon A, Perelló M, Sellarés J, Moreso F, Serón D. Tocilizumab en el tratamiento del rechazo humoral crónico activo resistente a terapia estándar. Nefrologia 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nefro.2021.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
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50
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Del Bello A, Marion O, Izopet J, Kamar N. Can the COVID-19 Pandemic Improve the Management of Solid Organ Transplant Recipients? Viruses 2022; 14:v14091860. [PMID: 36146666 PMCID: PMC9500961 DOI: 10.3390/v14091860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Increased mortality due to SARS-CoV-2 infection was observed among solid organ transplant patients. During the pandemic, in order to prevent and treat COVID-19 infections in this context, several innovative procedures and therapies were initiated within a short period of time. A large number of these innovations can be applied and expanded to improve the management of non-COVID-19 infectious diseases in solid organ transplant patients and in the case of a future pandemic. In this vein, the present paper reviews and discusses medical care system adaptation, modification of immunosuppression, adjuvant innovative therapies, the role of laboratory expertise, and the prevention of infections as examples of such innovations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnaud Del Bello
- Department of Nephrology and Organ Transplantation, Toulouse Rangueil University Hospital, 31059 Toulouse, France
- Toulouse Institute for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases (Infinity), INSERM UMR 1291, 31300 Toulouse, France
| | - Olivier Marion
- Department of Nephrology and Organ Transplantation, Toulouse Rangueil University Hospital, 31059 Toulouse, France
- Toulouse Institute for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases (Infinity), INSERM UMR 1291, 31300 Toulouse, France
| | - Jacques Izopet
- Toulouse Institute for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases (Infinity), INSERM UMR 1291, 31300 Toulouse, France
- University Toulouse III—Paul Sabatier, 31000 Toulouse, France
- Laboratory of Virology, Toulouse Purpan University Hospital, 31300 Toulouse, France
| | - Nassim Kamar
- Department of Nephrology and Organ Transplantation, Toulouse Rangueil University Hospital, 31059 Toulouse, France
- Toulouse Institute for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases (Infinity), INSERM UMR 1291, 31300 Toulouse, France
- University Toulouse III—Paul Sabatier, 31000 Toulouse, France
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-5-61-32-23-35; Fax: +33-5-61-32-39-89
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