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Moein M, Dvorai RH, Li BW, Fioramonti PJ, Schilsky JB, Thankachan R, Yang C, Saidi RF, Shahbazov R. Early conversion to belatacept-based immunosuppression regimen promotes improved long-term renal graft function in kidney transplant recipients. Transpl Immunol 2023; 80:101882. [PMID: 37392898 DOI: 10.1016/j.trim.2023.101882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Belatacept has been demonstrated as an effective alternative immunosuppressant in kidney transplant recipients. This study focuses on outcomes of early and late conversion to Belatacept-based immunosuppression after kidney transplant. MATERIALS AND METHODS This retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected database included all adult kidney transplants patients at SUNY Upstate Medical Hospital from 1 January 2014 to 30 December 2022. Early conversion was defined as all conversions done at <6 months after kidney transplantation, and late conversion to belatacept was defined as conversion at >6 months after kidney transplantation. RESULTS Out of 61 patients included in this study, 33 patients (54%) were in the early conversion group, and 28 patients (46%) were in the late conversion group. The mean eGFR in the early conversion group was 26.73 ± 16.26 ml/min/1.73 m2 before conversion to belatacept, which improved to 45.3 ± 21.01 ml/min/1.73 m2 at one-year post-conversion (p = 0.0006). Furthermore, eGFR changes in the late conversion group were insignificant, with 46.30 ± 15.65 ml/min/1.73 m2 before conversion to belatacept, and 44.76 ± 22.91 ml/min/1.73 m2 after one year of follow-up (p = 0.72). All four biopsy-proven allograft rejections in the early conversion group were acute T-cell-mediated rejections (ATMR). In the late conversion group, out of three biopsy-proven rejections, one was chronic antibody-mediated rejection (CAMR), one was ATMR, and one was mixed ATMR/CAMR. All four patients with ATMR rejection received mycophenolic acid (MPA) as part of their immunosuppressive regimen, and none received tacrolimus. The one-year post-conversion allograft survival rate in early and late conversion groups was 100%. However, the one-year post-conversion patient survival rate was 90.9% in the early conversion group and 100% in the late conversion group (P = 0.11). CONCLUSIONS Early post-transplant conversion to belatacept can improve the eGFR more meaningful when compared to late conversion. Patients who receive belatacept and MPA rather than tacrolimus may have increased rates of T-cell-mediated rejection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoudreza Moein
- Department of Surgery, Division of Transplantation, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
| | - Reut Hod Dvorai
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
| | - Benson W Li
- Norton College of Medicine, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
| | - P J Fioramonti
- Norton College of Medicine, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
| | - Juliana B Schilsky
- Norton College of Medicine, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
| | - Reeba Thankachan
- Department of Surgery, Division of Transplantation, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
| | - Christine Yang
- Department of Surgery, Division of Transplantation, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
| | - Reza F Saidi
- Department of Surgery, Division of Transplantation, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
| | - Rauf Shahbazov
- Department of Surgery, Division of Transplantation, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA.
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Kohei N, Tanaka T, Miyairi S, Tsuda H, Abe T, Su CA, Kish DD, Tanabe K, Valujskikh A, Min B, Fairchild RL. Failure of Costimulatory Blockade-induced Regulatory T Cells to Sustain Long-term Survival of High Ischemic Allografts. Transplantation 2023; 107:1935-1944. [PMID: 36978228 PMCID: PMC10514235 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000004570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Costimulatory blockade-induced allograft tolerance has been achieved in rodent models, but these strategies do not translate well to nonhuman primate and clinical transplants. One confounder that may underlie this discrepancy is the greater ischemic inflammation imposed on the transplants. In mice, cardiac allografts subjected to prolonged cold ischemic storage (CIS) before transplant have increased ischemia-reperfusion injury, which amplifies infiltrating endogenous memory CD8 T-cell activation within hours after transplantation to mediate acute graft inflammation and cytotoxic lymphocyte-associated molecule-4 immunoglobulin-resistant rejection. This study tested strategies inhibiting memory CD8 T-cell activation within such high ischemic allografts to achieve long-term survival. METHODS A/J (H-2 a ) hearts subjected to 0.5 or 8 h of CIS were transplanted to C57BL/6 (H-2 b ) recipients and treatment with peritransplant costimulatory blockade. At 60 d posttransplant, regulatory T cells (Treg) were depleted in recipients of high ischemic allografts with anti-CD25 monoclonal antibody (mAb) or diphtheria toxin. RESULTS Whereas peritransplant (days 0 and +1) anti-lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1 mAb and anti-CD154 mAb prolonged survival of >60% allografts subjected to minimal CIS for >100 d, only 20% of allografts subjected to prolonged CIS survived beyond day 80 posttransplant and rejection was accompanied by high titers of donor-specific antibody. Peritransplant anti-lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1, anti-tumor necrosis factor-α, and anti-CD154 mAb plus additional anti-CD154 mAb on days 14 and 16 obviated this donor-specific antibody and promoted Treg-mediated tolerance and survival of 60% of high ischemic allografts beyond day 100 posttransplant, but all allografts failed by day 120. CONCLUSIONS These studies indicate a strategy inducing prolonged high ischemic allograft survival through Treg-mediated tolerance that is not sustained indefinitely.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoki Kohei
- Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
- Tokyo Women’s Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Toshiaki Tanaka
- Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
- Department of Urology, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Satoshi Miyairi
- Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
- Tokyo Women’s Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hidetoshi Tsuda
- Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
- Department of Urology, Osaka University School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Toyofumi Abe
- Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
- Department of Urology, Osaka University School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Charles A. Su
- Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
- Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH
| | | | | | | | - Booki Min
- Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
| | - Robert L. Fairchild
- Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
- Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH
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3
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Vagiotas L, Stangou M, Kasimatis E, Xochelli A, Myserlis G, Lioulios G, Nikolaidou V, Panteli M, Ouranos K, Antoniadis N, Maria D, Papagianni A, Tsoulfas G, Fylaktou A. Effect of panel reactive antibodies on T cell immunity reinstatement following renal transplantation. World J Transplant 2022; 12:313-324. [PMID: 36313234 PMCID: PMC9614585 DOI: 10.5500/wjt.v12.i10.313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic kidney disease is associated with immunological disorders, presented as phenotypic alterations of T lymphocytes. These changes are expected to be restored after a successful renal transplantation; however, additional parameters may contribute to this process.
AIM To evaluate the impact of positive panel reactive antibodies (PRAs) on the restoration of T cell phenotype, after renal transplantation.
METHODS CD4CD28null, CD8CD28null, natural killer cells (NKs), and regulatory T cells (Tregs) were estimated by flow cytometry at T0, T3, and T6 which were the time of transplantation, and 3- and 6-mo follow-up, respectively. Changes were estimated regarding the presence or absence of PRAs.
RESULTS Patients were classified in two groups: PRA(-) (n = 43) and PRA(+) (n = 28) groups. Lymphocyte and their subtypes were similar between the two groups at T0, whereas their percentage was increased at T3 in PRA(-) compared to PRA(+) [23 (10.9-47.9) vs 16.4 (7.5-36.8 μ/L, respectively; P = 0.03]. Lymphocyte changes in PRA(-) patients included a significant increase in CD4 cells (P < 0.0001), CD8 cells (P < 0.0001), and Tregs (P < 0.0001), and a reduction of NKs (P < 0.0001). PRA(+) patients showed an increase in CD4 (P = 0.008) and CD8 (P = 0.0001), and a reduction in NKs (P = 0.07). CD4CD28null and CD8CD28null cells, although initially reduced in both groups, were stabilized thereafter.
CONCLUSION Our study described important differences in the immune response between PRA(+) and PRA(-) patients with changes in lymphocytes and lymphocyte subpopulations. PRA(+) patients seemed to have a worse immune profile after 6 mo follow-up, regardless of renal function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lampros Vagiotas
- Department of Transplant Surgery, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Hippokration General Hospital, Thessaloniki 54642, Greece
| | - Maria Stangou
- Department of Nephrology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Hippokration General Hospital, Thessaloniki 54642, Greece
| | - Efstratios Kasimatis
- Department of Nephrology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Hippokration General Hospital, Thessaloniki 54642, Greece
| | - Aliki Xochelli
- Department of Immunology, National Peripheral Histocompatibility Center, Hippokration General Hospital, Thessaloniki 54642, Greece
| | - Grigorios Myserlis
- Department of Transplant Surgery, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Hippokration General Hospital, Thessaloniki 54642, Greece
| | - Georgios Lioulios
- Department of Nephrology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Hippokration General Hospital, Thessaloniki 54642, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Nikolaidou
- Department of Immunology, National Peripheral Histocompatibility Center, Hippokration General Hospital, Thessaloniki 54642, Greece
| | - Manolis Panteli
- Department of Nephrology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Hippokration General Hospital, Thessaloniki 54642, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Ouranos
- Department of Nephrology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Hippokration General Hospital, Thessaloniki 54642, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Antoniadis
- Department of Transplant Surgery, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Hippokration General Hospital, Thessaloniki 54642, Greece
| | - Daoudaki Maria
- Medical School Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Biochemistry Laboratory, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki 54124, Greece
| | - Aikaterini Papagianni
- Department of Nephrology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Hippokration General Hospital, Thessaloniki 54642, Greece
| | - Georgios Tsoulfas
- Department of Transplant Surgery, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Hippokration General Hospital, Thessaloniki 54642, Greece
| | - Asimina Fylaktou
- Department of Immunology, National Peripheral Histocompatibility Center, Hippokration General Hospital, Thessaloniki 54642, Greece
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4
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Tacrolimus before CTLA4Ig and rapamycin promotes vascularized composite allograft survival in MGH miniature swine. Transpl Immunol 2022; 75:101696. [PMID: 35987329 DOI: 10.1016/j.trim.2022.101696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We evaluated the outcome of vertical rectus abdominus myocutaneous flap (VRAM) allotransplantation in a mini-pig model, using a combined co-stimulation blockade (Co-SB) and mechanistic target of rapamycin inhibition (mTORi)-based regimen, with or without preceding calcineurin inhibition (CNI). MATERIALS AND METHODS VRAM allotransplants were performed between SLA-mismatched MGH miniature swine. Group A (n = 2) was treated continuously with the mTOR inhibitor rapamycin from day -1 in combination with the Co-SB agent cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen 4-Ig (CTLA4-Ig) from post-operative day (POD) 0. In group B (n = 3), animals received tacrolimus daily from POD 0 to POD 13, followed by rapamycin daily from POD 7 and CTLA4-Ig weekly from POD 7-28. Graft rejection was determined by Banff criteria and host cellular and humoral immunity monitored. RESULTS In group A, allografts developed grade-I acute rejection by POD 2 and POD 7, and reached grade-IV by POD 17 and POD 20, respectively. By contrast, in group B, two allografts demonstrated grade-I rejection on POD 30 and grade-IV on POD 74, while the third exhibited grade-I rejection starting on POD 50, though this animal had to be euthanized on POD 58 due to Pneumocystis jirovecii infection. Time-to-event incidence of grade-I rejection was significantly lower in group A compared to group B. During the first 3 weeks post-transplant, no significant differences in anti-donor immunity were observed between the groups. CONCLUSION A short course of CNI, followed by combined Co-SB and mTORi significantly delays acute rejection of VRAM allografts in SLA-mismatched miniature swine.
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5
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Nachiappan A, Fallah T, Willert R, Chojnowski D, Deshpande C, Courtwright A. Severe Acute Cellular Rejection With High-Grade Lymphocytic Bronchiolitis Following Transition from Tacrolimus to Belatacept in a Lung Transplantation Recipient: A Case Report. Transplant Proc 2021; 54:165-168. [PMID: 34756649 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2021.08.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
This case report describes a lung transplantation recipient who developed severe acute cellular rejection with high-grade lymphocytic bronchiolitis after transition to a calcineurin-free regimen using belatacept. A 53-year-old man who had undergone lung transplantation 3 years prior developed progressive chronic kidney disease related to tacrolimus. He was transitioned off tacrolimus to belatacept to prevent the need for dialysis. He was admitted 2 months later with acute hypoxemic respiratory failure. Video-assisted thoracic surgery biopsy showed acute fibrinous and organizing pneumonia and A4B2 rejection. He subsequently developed chronic lung allograft dysfunction. This case illustrates the potential increased risk of acute rejection associated with belatacept maintenance immunosuppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arun Nachiappan
- Department of Radiology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Tara Fallah
- Advanced Lung Disease and Lung Transplantation, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Rebecca Willert
- Advanced Lung Disease and Lung Transplantation, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Donna Chojnowski
- Advanced Lung Disease and Lung Transplantation, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Charuhas Deshpande
- Department of Pathology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Andrew Courtwright
- Advanced Lung Disease and Lung Transplantation, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.
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6
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Natural Antibodies and Alloreactive T Cells Long after Kidney Transplantation. J Transplant 2021; 2021:7005080. [PMID: 34631160 PMCID: PMC8497134 DOI: 10.1155/2021/7005080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The relationship between circulating effector memory T and B cells long after transplantation and their susceptibility to immunosuppression are unknown. To investigate the impact of antirejection therapy on T cell-B cell coordinated immune responses, we assessed IFN-γ-producing memory cells and natural antibodies (nAbs) that potentially bind to autoantigens on the graft. Methods Plasma levels of IgG nAbs to malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured in 145 kidney transplant recipients at 5-7 years after transplantation. In 54 of these patients, the number of donor-reactive IFN-γ-producing cells was determined. 35/145 patients experienced rejection, 18 of which occurred within 1 year after transplantation. Results The number of donor-reactive IFN-γ-producing cells and the levels of nAbs were comparable between rejectors and nonrejectors. The nAbs levels were positively correlated with the number of donor-reactive IFN-γ-producing cells (r s = 0.39, p=0.004). The positive correlation was only observed in rejectors (r s = 0.53, p=0.003; nonrejectors: r s = 0.24, p=0.23). Moreover, we observed that intravenous immune globulin treatment affected the level of nAbs and this effect was found in patients who experienced a late ca-ABMR compared to nonrejectors (p=0.008). Conclusion The positive correlation found between alloreactive T cells and nAbs in rejectors suggests an intricate role for both components of the immune response in the rejection process. Treatment with intravenous immune globulin impacted nAbs.
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7
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Jongbloed F, de Bruin RWF, Steeg HV, Beekhof P, Wackers P, Hesselink DA, Hoeijmakers JHJ, Dollé MET, IJzermans JNM. Protein and calorie restriction may improve outcomes in living kidney donors and kidney transplant recipients. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 12:12441-12467. [PMID: 32652516 PMCID: PMC7377854 DOI: 10.18632/aging.103619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Previously, we and others showed that dietary restriction protects against renal ischemia-reperfusion injury in animals. However, clinical translation of preoperative diets is scarce, and in the setting of kidney transplantation these data are lacking. In this pilot study, we investigated the effects of five days of a preoperative protein and caloric dietary restriction (PCR) diet in living kidney donors on the perioperative effects in donors, recipients and transplanted kidneys. Thirty-five kidney donors were randomized into either the PCR, 30% calorie and 80% protein reduction, or control group without restrictions. Adherence to the diet and kidney function in donors and their kidney recipients were analyzed. Perioperative kidney biopsies were taken in a selected group of transplanted kidneys for gene expression analysis. All donors adhered to the diet. From postoperative day 2 up until month 1, kidney function of donors was significantly better in the PCR-group. PCR-donor kidney recipients showed significantly improved kidney function and lower incidence of slow graft function and acute rejection. PCR inhibited cellular immune response pathways and activated stress-resistance signaling. These observations are the first to show that preoperative dietary restriction induces postoperative recovery benefits in humans and may be beneficial in clinical settings involving ischemia-reperfusion injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franny Jongbloed
- Department of Surgery, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Laboratory of Health Protection Research, National Institute of Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Ron W F de Bruin
- Department of Surgery, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Harry Van Steeg
- Laboratory of Health Protection Research, National Institute of Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, The Netherlands.,Department of Toxicogenetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Piet Beekhof
- Laboratory of Health Protection Research, National Institute of Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Paul Wackers
- Laboratory of Health Protection Research, National Institute of Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Dennis A Hesselink
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jan H J Hoeijmakers
- Department of Genetics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Martijn E T Dollé
- Laboratory of Health Protection Research, National Institute of Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Jan N M IJzermans
- Department of Surgery, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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8
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Abstract
Costimulation between T cells and antigen-presenting cells is essential for the regulation of an effective alloimmune response and is not targeted with the conventional immunosuppressive therapy after kidney transplantation. Costimulation blockade therapy with biologicals allows precise targeting of the immune response but without non-immune adverse events. Multiple costimulation blockade approaches have been developed that inhibit the alloimmune response in kidney transplant recipients with varying degrees of success. Belatacept, an immunosuppressive drug that selectively targets the CD28-CD80/CD86 pathway, is the only costimulation blockade therapy that is currently approved for kidney transplant recipients. In the last decade, belatacept therapy has been shown to be a promising therapy in subgroups of kidney transplant recipients; however, the widespread use of belatacept has been tempered by an increased risk of acute kidney transplant rejection. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the costimulation blockade therapies that are currently in use or being developed for kidney transplant indications.
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9
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Conversion From Calcineurin Inhibitors to Belatacept in HLA-sensitized Kidney Transplant Recipients With Low-level Donor-specific Antibodies. Transplantation 2020; 103:2150-2156. [PMID: 30720681 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000002592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Belatacept could be the treatment of choice in renal-transplant recipients with renal dysfunction attributed to calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) nephrotoxicity. Few studies have described its use in patients with donor-specific antibody (DSA). METHODS We retrospectively evaluated conversion from CNIs to belatacept in 29 human leukocyte antigen-immunized renal-transplant recipients. Data about acute rejection, DSA, and renal function were collected. These patients were compared with 42 nonimmunized patients treated with belatacept. RESULTS Patients were converted from CNIs to belatacept a median of 444 days (interquartile range, 85-1200) after transplantation and were followed up after belatacept conversion, for a median of 308 days (interquartile range, 125-511). At conversion, 16 patients had DSA. Nineteen DSA were observed in these 16 patients, of which 11/19 were <1000 mean fluorescence intensity (MFI), 7/19 were between 1000 and 3000 MFI, and one was >3000 MFI. At last follow-up, preexisting DSA had decreased or stabilized. Seven patients still had DSA with a mean MFI of 1298 ± 930 at the last follow-up. No patient developed a de novo DSA in the DSA-positive group. In the nonimmunized group, one patient developed de novo DSA (A24-MFI 970; biopsy for cause did not show biopsy-proven acute rejection or microinflammation score). After belatacept conversion, one antibody-mediated rejection was diagnosed. The mean estimated glomerular filtration rate improved from 31.7 ± 14.2 mL/min/1.73 m to 40.7 ± 12.3 mL/min/1.73 m (P < 0.0001) at 12 months after conversion. We did not find any significant difference between groups in terms of renal function, proteinuria, or biopsy-proven acute rejection. CONCLUSIONS We report on a safe conversion to belatacept in human leukocyte antigen-immunized patients with low DSA levels.
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Castro-Rojas CM, Godarova A, Shi T, Hummel SA, Shields A, Tremblay S, Alloway RR, Jordan MB, Woodle ES, Hildeman DA. mTOR Inhibitor Therapy Diminishes Circulating CD8+ CD28- Effector Memory T Cells and Improves Allograft Inflammation in Belatacept-refractory Renal Allograft Rejection. Transplantation 2020; 104:1058-1069. [PMID: 31415033 PMCID: PMC7012662 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000002917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Renal allograft rejection is more frequent under belatacept-based, compared with tacrolimus-based, immunosuppression. We studied kidney transplant recipients experiencing rejection under belatacept-based early corticosteroid withdrawal following T-cell-depleting induction in a recent randomized trial (Belatacept-based Early Steroid Withdrawal Trial, clinicaltrials.gov NCT01729494) to determine mechanisms of rejection and treatment. METHODS Peripheral mononuclear cells, serum creatinine levels, and renal biopsies were collected from 8 patients undergoing belatacept-refractory rejection (BRR). We used flow cytometry, histology, and immunofluorescence to characterize CD8 effector memory T cell (TEM) populations in the periphery and graft before and after mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibition. RESULTS Here, we found that patients with BRR did not respond to standard antirejection therapy and had a substantial increase in alloreactive CD8 T cells with a CD28/DR/CD38/CD45RO TEM. These cells had increased activation of the mTOR pathway, as assessed by phosphorylated ribosomal protein S6 expression. Notably, everolimus (an mTOR inhibitor) treatment of patients with BRR halted the in vivo proliferation of TEM cells and their ex vivo alloreactivity and resulted in their significant reduction in the peripheral blood. The frequency of circulating FoxP3 regulatory T cells was not altered. Importantly, everolimus led to rapid resolution of rejection as confirmed by histology. CONCLUSIONS Thus, while prior work has shown that concomitant belatacept + mTOR inhibitor therapy is effective for maintenance immunosuppression, our preliminary data suggest that everolimus may provide an available means for effecting "rescue" therapy for rejections occurring under belatacept that are refractory to traditional antirejection therapy with corticosteroids and polyclonal antilymphocyte globulin.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alzbeta Godarova
- Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Tiffany Shi
- Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Sarah A. Hummel
- Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Adele Shields
- Division of Transplantation, Department of Surgery, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Simon Tremblay
- Division of Transplantation, Department of Surgery, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Rita R. Alloway
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Michael B. Jordan
- Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, Cincinnati, OH
- Division of Bone Marrow Transplant and Immune Deficiency, Cincinnati Children’s Research Foundation, Cincinnati, OH
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH
| | - E. Steve Woodle
- Division of Transplantation, Department of Surgery, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH
| | - David A. Hildeman
- Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, Cincinnati, OH
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH
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11
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Selective Costimulation Blockade With Antagonist Anti-CD28 Therapeutics in Transplantation. Transplantation 2019; 103:1783-1789. [DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000002740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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12
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Targeted Proteomic Analysis Detects Acute T Cell-Mediated Kidney Allograft Rejection in Belatacept-Treated Patients. Ther Drug Monit 2019; 41:243-248. [PMID: 30883517 DOI: 10.1097/ftd.0000000000000587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is an unmet need for reliable minimally invasive diagnostic biomarkers for immunological allograft monitoring and for the detection of acute kidney transplant rejection. Here, targeted proteomic analysis was applied to compare 92 proteins in sera of belatacept-treated patients who had biopsy-proven, acute T-cell-mediated rejection (aTCMR) with patients without aTCMR. METHODS Proximity extension immunoassay was used to measure 92 inflammation-related protein concentrations in the prerejection and rejection sera of 11 patients with aTCMR and 9 patients without aTCMR. This assay uses 2 matched oligonucleotide-labeled antibody probes for each protein and polymerase chain reaction to measure normalized protein expression values. RESULTS Five proteins (CD5, CD8A, NCR1, TNFRSF4, and TNFRSF9) were expressed significantly higher in samples with aTCMR compared with samples without aTCMR (adjusted P-value < 0.014) and had a good predictive capacity for aTCMR [area under the curve in a receiver-operator curve ranged from 0.83 to 0.91 (P < 0.014)]. These proteins are associated with CD8 cytotoxic T-cell and NK cell functions. Nonhierarchical clustering analysis showed distinct clustering of samples with aTCMR and samples without aTCMR. This clustering was not found in prerejection samples (1 month after transplantation). In prerejection samples, IFN-γ was expressed at a significantly lower level (normalized protein expression value median -0.15, interquartile range: -0.27 to 0.04) than in samples of patients without rejection (median 0.13, interquartile range: -0.07 to 0.15, adjusted P-value = 0.00367). CONCLUSIONS Targeted proteomic analysis with proximity extension immunoassay is a promising minimally invasive technique to diagnose aTCMR in kidney transplant recipients.
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Conversion to Belatacept in Maintenance Kidney Transplant Patients: A Retrospective Multicenter European Study. Transplantation 2019; 102:1545-1552. [PMID: 29570163 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000002192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of belatacept is not yet approved for maintenance in kidney transplant patients. This retrospective multicenter European study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of conversion to belatacept in a large cohort of patients in a real-life setting and to identify the predictive factors for improved kidney function after the switch. METHODS Two hundred nineteen maintenance kidney transplant patients from 5 European kidney transplant centers were converted to belatacept at 21.2 months (0.1-337.1 months) posttransplantation, mainly because of impaired kidney function. Thirty-two patients were converted to belatacept within the first 3 months posttransplantation. The mean duration of follow-up was 21.9 ± 20.2 months. RESULTS The actuarial rate of patients still on belatacept-based therapy was 77.6%. Mean estimated glomerular filtration rate increased from 32 ± 16.4 at baseline to 38 ± 20 mL/min per 1.73 m (P < 0.0001) at last follow-up. Conversion to belatacept before 3 months posttransplantation was the main predictive factor for a significant increase in estimated glomerular filtration rate (of 5 and 10 mL/min per 1.73 m at 3 and 12 months after the switch, respectively). Eighteen patients (8.2%) presented with an acute rejection episode after conversion; 3 developed a donor-specific antibody. Overall efficacy and safety were good, including for the 35 patients that had a donor-specific antibody at conversion. CONCLUSIONS The conversion to belatacept was effective, especially when performed early after transplantation.
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Noble J, Jouve T, Janbon B, Rostaing L, Malvezzi P. Belatacept in kidney transplantation and its limitations. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2019; 15:359-367. [DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2019.1574570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Johan Noble
- Service de Néphrologie, Hémodialyse, Aphérèses et Transplantation Rénale, CHU Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble, France
- Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Thomas Jouve
- Service de Néphrologie, Hémodialyse, Aphérèses et Transplantation Rénale, CHU Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble, France
- Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Bénédicte Janbon
- Service de Néphrologie, Hémodialyse, Aphérèses et Transplantation Rénale, CHU Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Lionel Rostaing
- Service de Néphrologie, Hémodialyse, Aphérèses et Transplantation Rénale, CHU Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble, France
- Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Paolo Malvezzi
- Service de Néphrologie, Hémodialyse, Aphérèses et Transplantation Rénale, CHU Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble, France
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Kidney Transplant Outcome Is Associated with Regulatory T Cell Population and Gene Expression Early after Transplantation. J Immunol Res 2019; 2019:7452019. [PMID: 30729139 PMCID: PMC6341262 DOI: 10.1155/2019/7452019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2018] [Revised: 10/16/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Successful long-term kidney allograft survival with parallel reduction of complications resulting from prolonged immunosuppressive treatment is a goal in kidney transplantation. We studied the immune changes in cell phenotypes and gene expression induced by kidney transplantation. Our goal was to find a phenotypic and/or transcriptional pattern that might be considered prognostic for the kidney transplant outcome. The analysis was performed prospectively on 36 KTx recipients sampled during the first year and followed for five years after transplantation and on 40 long-term KTx recipients (7.9 ± 2.2 y. post-KTx). The research involved flow cytometry assessment of lymphocyte subpopulations (including Tregs and CD3+CD8+CD28− lymphocytes) and gene expression analysis of immune-related genes (CD4, CD8, CTLA4, GZMB, FOXP3, IL10, IL4, ILR2A, NOTCH, PDCD1, PRF1, TGFB, and TNFA). The analysis of patterns observed over the first post-KTx year was confronted with control, pretransplant, and long-term transplant results. Treg counts at months one and three post-KTx correlated positively with the current and future allograft function. FOXP3 gene expression at month one post-KTx was also associated with long-term allograft function. The KTx-induced CD3+CD8+CD28− population correlated with GZMB and PRF1 expression and suggested their cytotoxic properties. The size of the Treg population and regulatory FOXP3 gene expression in the early period after transplantation are associated with kidney transplant outcome. The outlined predictive power of the Treg population needs to be investigated further to be confirmed as one of the immune monitoring strategies that may help achieve the best long-term kidney allograft outcomes.
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Immunomics of Renal Allograft Acute T Cell-Mediated Rejection Biopsies of Tacrolimus- and Belatacept-Treated Patients. Transplant Direct 2018; 5:e418. [PMID: 30656216 PMCID: PMC6324913 DOI: 10.1097/txd.0000000000000857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Revised: 11/02/2018] [Accepted: 11/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Supplemental digital content is available in the text. Background Belatacept-based therapy in kidney transplant recipient has been shown to increase long-term renal allograft and patient survival compared with calcineurin inhibitor–based therapy, however, with an increased risk of acute T cell-mediated rejection (aTCMR). An improved understanding of costimulation blockade-resistant rejections could lead to a more personalized approach to belatacept therapy. Here, immunomic profiles of aTCMR biopsies of patients treated with either tacrolimus or belatacept were compared. Methods Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded renal transplant biopsies were used for immunohistochemistry and gene expression analysis using the innovative NanoString technique. To validate NanoString, transcriptomic profiles of patients with and without biopsy-proven aTCMR were compared. Biopsies from 31 patients were studied: 14 tacrolimus-treated patients with aTCMR, 11 belatacept-treated patients with aTCMR, and 6 controls without rejection. Results A distinct pattern was seen in biopsies with aTCMR compared to negative controls: 78 genes had a higher expression in the aTCMR group (false discovery rate P value <.05 to 1.42e–05). The most significant were T cell-associated genes (CD3, CD8, and CD4; P < 1.98e-04), γ-interferon-inducible genes (CCL5, CXCL9, CXCL11, CXCL10, TBX21; P < 1.33e-04) plus effector genes (GNLY, GZMB, ITGAX; P < 2.82e-03). Immunophenotypical analysis of the classic immune markers of the innate and adaptive immune system was comparable between patients treated with either tacrolimus or belatacept. In addition, the transcriptome of both groups was not significantly different. Conclusions In this small pilot study, no difference was found in immunomics of aTCMR biopsies of tacrolimus- and belatacept-treated patients. This suggests that clinically diagnosed aTCMR reflects a final common pathway of allorecognition which is unaffected by the type of immunosuppressive therapy.
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Baan CC, de Graav GN, Weimar W, Hesselink DA. Response: Commentary: Belatacept Does Not Inhibit Follicular T Cell-Dependent B-Cell Differentiation in Kidney Transplantation. Front Immunol 2018; 9:466. [PMID: 29569634 PMCID: PMC5852332 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.00466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2018] [Accepted: 02/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Carla C Baan
- Section Nephrology and Transplantation, Department Internal Medicine, The Rotterdam Transplant Group, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Gretchen N de Graav
- Section Nephrology and Transplantation, Department Internal Medicine, The Rotterdam Transplant Group, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Willem Weimar
- Section Nephrology and Transplantation, Department Internal Medicine, The Rotterdam Transplant Group, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Dennis A Hesselink
- Section Nephrology and Transplantation, Department Internal Medicine, The Rotterdam Transplant Group, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
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Kraaijeveld R, de Graav GN, Dieterich M, Litjens NHR, Hesselink DA, Baan CC. Co-inhibitory profile and cytotoxicity of CD57 + PD-1 - T cells in end-stage renal disease patients. Clin Exp Immunol 2018; 191:363-372. [PMID: 29027667 PMCID: PMC5801492 DOI: 10.1111/cei.13070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Blockade of the CD80/86-CD28 pathway by belatacept after kidney transplantation is associated with an increased risk of rejection compared with standard, calcineurin inhibitor (CNI)-based therapy. CD28- T cells, which express CD57, are not susceptible to belatacept treatment. High numbers of CD4+ CD57+ programmed death 1 (PD-1)- T cells pretransplantation have been associated with a higher chance of rejection, although conflicting data have been reported. To investigate the working mechanism behind this possible higher chance of rejection, we studied the expression of co-inhibitory molecules (CD223, CD244 and PD-1), proliferative capacity and cytotoxic potential of fluorescence activated cell sorted (FACS) CD4+ CD57+ PD-1- and CD8+ CD57+ PD-1- T cells, and their CD57- control populations, after alloantigen stimulation. The effect of belatacept on the cytotoxic capacity of pretransplantation peripheral blood mononuclear cells from 20 patients who received belatacept post-transplantation was also tested. Expression of co-inhibitory molecule CD223 increased by approximately 10-fold after allogeneic stimulation in all four T cell subsets. Proliferation and up-regulation of CD244 and PD-1 was observed for CD4+ CD57- PD-1- T cells after allogeneic stimulation, but no up-regulation of these markers occurred on CD8+ T cells or CD4+ CD57+ PD-1- T cells. However, CD4+ CD57+ PD-1- T cells and, to a lesser extent, CD8+ CD57+ PD-1- T cells displayed higher cytotoxicity as indicated by granzyme B expression. Belatacept inhibited the cytotoxic potential of CD4+ CD57+ PD-1- T cells (median of inhibition 31%, P < 0·01) and CD8+ CD57+ PD-1- T cells (median of inhibition 10%, P < 0·05). In conclusion, alloantigen-activated CD4+ CD57+ PD-1- T cells exhibited a less proliferative but more cytotoxic profile than their CD57- counterparts. Their cytotoxic capacity can be inhibited partly by belatacept and was not associated with development of rejection after kidney transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- R. Kraaijeveld
- Department of Internal MedicineErasmus MC, University Medical Center RotterdamRotterdamthe Netherlands
| | - G. N. de Graav
- Department of Internal MedicineErasmus MC, University Medical Center RotterdamRotterdamthe Netherlands
| | - M. Dieterich
- Department of Internal MedicineErasmus MC, University Medical Center RotterdamRotterdamthe Netherlands
| | - N. H. R. Litjens
- Department of Internal MedicineErasmus MC, University Medical Center RotterdamRotterdamthe Netherlands
| | - D. A. Hesselink
- Department of Internal MedicineErasmus MC, University Medical Center RotterdamRotterdamthe Netherlands
| | - C. C. Baan
- Department of Internal MedicineErasmus MC, University Medical Center RotterdamRotterdamthe Netherlands
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Improved Glucose Tolerance in a Kidney Transplant Recipient With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus After Switching From Tacrolimus To Belatacept: A Case Report and Review of Potential Mechanisms. Transplant Direct 2018; 4:e350. [PMID: 29707621 PMCID: PMC5912016 DOI: 10.1097/txd.0000000000000767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2017] [Accepted: 12/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Supplemental digital content is available in the text. The introduction of immunosuppressant belatacept, an inhibitor of the CD28-80/86 pathway, has improved 1-year outcomes in kidney transplant recipients with preexistent diabetes mellitus and has also reduced the risk of posttransplant diabetes mellitus. So far, no studies have compared a tacrolimus-based with a belatacept-based immunosuppressive regimen with regard to improving glucose tolerance after kidney transplantation. Here, we present the case of a 54-year-old man with type 2 diabetes mellitus who was converted from belatacept to tacrolimus 1 year after a successful kidney transplantation. Thereafter, he quickly developed severe hyperglycemia, and administration of insulin was needed to improve metabolic control. Six months after this episode, he was converted back to belatacept because of nausea, diarrhea, and hyperglycemia. After switching back to belatacept and within 4 days after stopping tacrolimus glucose tolerance improved and insulin therapy could be discontinued. Although belatacept is considered less diabetogenic than tacrolimus, the rapid improvement of glucose tolerance after switching to belatacept is remarkable. In this article, the potential mechanisms of this observation are discussed.
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20
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Dedeoglu B, Litjens NHR, Klepper M, Kraaijeveld R, Verschoor W, Baan CC, Betjes MGH. CD4 + CD28 null T cells are not alloreactive unless stimulated by interleukin-15. Am J Transplant 2018; 18:341-350. [PMID: 28858434 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.14480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2017] [Revised: 08/20/2017] [Accepted: 08/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Proinflammatory, cytotoxic CD4+ CD28null T cells can be substantially expanded in patients with end-stage renal disease. These cells have been associated with the risk for rejection, but their alloreactive potential is unknown. CD4+ CD28null T cells were stimulated with HLA-mismatched antigen presenting cells in the absence/presence of exogenous cytokines. Alloreactive potential was evaluated based on proliferation, degranulation, cytotoxicity, and cytokine production. Further, their suppressive capacity was assessed by measuring inhibition of proliferating alloreactive CD28+ T cells. CD4+ CD28null T cells contained alloreactive (CD137+ ) T cells but did not proliferate in response to allogeneic stimulation, unless interleukin (IL)-15 was added. However, they could proliferate on stimulation with cytomegalovirus antigen without exogenous cytokines. IL-15 increased the frequency of proliferating alloreactive CD4+ CD28null T cells to 30.5% without inducing CD28 expression (P < .05). After allogeneic stimulation together with IL-15 and IL-21, frequency of degranulating CD107a+ CD4+ CD28null T cells increased significantly from 0.6% to 5.8% (P < .001). Granzyme B and perforin positivity remained similar, but production of interferon-γ and tumor necrosis factor-α increased by the combination of IL-15 and IL-21 (P < .001 and P < .05, respectively). Finally, CD4+ CD28null T cells did not show significant suppression. Thus, CD4+ CD28null T cells represent a population with absent alloreactivity unless IL-15 is present.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Dedeoglu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section Nephrology and Transplantation, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - N H R Litjens
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section Nephrology and Transplantation, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M Klepper
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section Nephrology and Transplantation, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - R Kraaijeveld
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section Nephrology and Transplantation, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - W Verschoor
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section Nephrology and Transplantation, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - C C Baan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section Nephrology and Transplantation, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M G H Betjes
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section Nephrology and Transplantation, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Kannegieter NM, Hesselink DA, Dieterich M, de Graav GN, Kraaijeveld R, Baan CC. Differential T Cell Signaling Pathway Activation by Tacrolimus and Belatacept after Kidney Transplantation: Post Hoc Analysis of a Randomised-Controlled Trial. Sci Rep 2017; 7:15135. [PMID: 29123208 PMCID: PMC5680251 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-15542-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2017] [Accepted: 10/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pharmacokinetic immunosuppressive drug monitoring poorly correlates with clinical outcomes after solid organ transplantation. A promising method for pharmacodynamic monitoring of tacrolimus (TAC) in T cell subsets of transplant recipients might be the measurement of (phosphorylated) p38MAPK, ERK1/2 and Akt (activated downstream of the T cell receptor) by phospho-specific flow cytometry. Here, blood samples from n = 40 kidney transplant recipients (treated with either TAC-based or belatacept (BELA)-based immunosuppressive drug therapy) were monitored before and throughout the first year after transplantation. After transplantation and in unstimulated samples, p-p38MAPK and p-Akt were inhibited in CD8+ T cells and p-ERK in CD4+ T cells but only in patients who received TAC-based therapy. After activation with PMA/ionomycin, p-p38MAPK and p-AKT were significantly inhibited in CD4+ and CD8+ T cells when TAC was given, compared to pre-transplantation. Eleven BELA-treated patients had a biopsy-proven acute rejection, which was associated with higher p-ERK levels in both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells compared to patients without rejection. In conclusion, phospho-specific flow cytometry is a promising tool to pharmacodynamically monitor TAC-based therapy. In contrast to TAC-based therapy, BELA-based immunosuppression does not inhibit key T cell activation pathways which may contribute to the high rejection incidence among BELA-treated transplant recipients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nynke M Kannegieter
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Dennis A Hesselink
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marjolein Dieterich
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Gretchen N de Graav
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rens Kraaijeveld
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Carla C Baan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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de Graav GN, Baan CC, Clahsen-van Groningen MC, Kraaijeveld R, Dieterich M, Verschoor W, von der Thusen JH, Roelen DL, Cadogan M, van de Wetering J, van Rosmalen J, Weimar W, Hesselink DA. A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial Comparing Belatacept With Tacrolimus After De Novo Kidney Transplantation. Transplantation 2017; 101:2571-2581. [PMID: 28403127 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000001755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Belatacept, an inhibitor of the CD28-CD80/86 costimulatory pathway, allows for calcineurin-inhibitor free immunosuppressive therapy in kidney transplantation but is associated with a higher acute rejection risk than ciclosporin. Thus far, no biomarker for belatacept-resistant rejection has been validated. In this randomized-controlled trial, acute rejection rate was compared between belatacept- and tacrolimus-treated patients and immunological biomarkers for acute rejection were investigated. METHODS Forty kidney transplant recipients were 1:1 randomized to belatacept or tacrolimus combined with basiliximab, mycophenolate mofetil, and prednisolone. The 1-year incidence of biopsy-proven acute rejection was monitored. Potential biomarkers, namely, CD8CD28, CD4CD57PD1, and CD8CD28 end-stage terminally differentiated memory T cells were measured pretransplantation and posttransplantation and correlated to rejection. Pharmacodynamic monitoring of belatacept was performed by measuring free CD86 on monocytes. RESULTS The rejection incidence was higher in belatacept-treated than tacrolimus-treated patients: 55% versus 10% (P = 0.006). All 3 graft losses, due to rejection, occurred in the belatacept group. Although 4 of 5 belatacept-treated patients with greater than 35 cells CD8CD28 end-stage terminally differentiated memory T cells/μL rejected, median pretransplant values of the biomarkers did not differ between belatacept-treated rejectors and nonrejectors. In univariable Cox regressions, the studied cell subsets were not associated with rejection-risk. CD86 molecules on circulating monocytes in belatacept-treated patients were saturated at all timepoints. CONCLUSIONS Belatacept-based immunosuppressive therapy resulted in higher and more severe acute rejection compared with tacrolimus-based therapy. This trial did not identify cellular biomarkers predictive of rejection. In addition, the CD28-CD80/86 costimulatory pathway appeared to be sufficiently blocked by belatacept and did not predict rejection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gretchen N de Graav
- 1 Division of Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands. 2 Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands. 3 Department of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands. 4 Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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van den Bosch TPP, Kannegieter NM, Hesselink DA, Baan CC, Rowshani AT. Targeting the Monocyte-Macrophage Lineage in Solid Organ Transplantation. Front Immunol 2017; 8:153. [PMID: 28261211 PMCID: PMC5312419 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.00153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2016] [Accepted: 01/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
There is an unmet clinical need for immunotherapeutic strategies that specifically target the active immune cells participating in the process of rejection after solid organ transplantation. The monocyte–macrophage cell lineage is increasingly recognized as a major player in acute and chronic allograft immunopathology. The dominant presence of cells of this lineage in rejecting allograft tissue is associated with worse graft function and survival. Monocytes and macrophages contribute to alloimmunity via diverse pathways: antigen processing and presentation, costimulation, pro-inflammatory cytokine production, and tissue repair. Cross talk with other recipient immune competent cells and donor endothelial cells leads to amplification of inflammation and a cytolytic response in the graft. Surprisingly, little is known about therapeutic manipulation of the function of cells of the monocyte–macrophage lineage in transplantation by immunosuppressive agents. Although not primarily designed to target monocyte–macrophage lineage cells, multiple categories of currently prescribed immunosuppressive drugs, such as mycophenolate mofetil, mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors, and calcineurin inhibitors, do have limited inhibitory effects. These effects include diminishing the degree of cytokine production, thereby blocking costimulation and inhibiting the migration of monocytes to the site of rejection. Outside the field of transplantation, some clinical studies have shown that the monoclonal antibodies canakinumab, tocilizumab, and infliximab are effective in inhibiting monocyte functions. Indirect effects have also been shown for simvastatin, a lipid lowering drug, and bromodomain and extra-terminal motif inhibitors that reduce the cytokine production by monocytes–macrophages in patients with diabetes mellitus and rheumatoid arthritis. To date, detailed knowledge concerning the origin, the developmental requirements, and functions of diverse specialized monocyte–macrophage subsets justifies research for therapeutic manipulation. Here, we will discuss the effects of currently prescribed immunosuppressive drugs on monocyte/macrophage features and the future challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thierry P P van den Bosch
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Nephrology and Transplantation, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam , Rotterdam , Netherlands
| | - Nynke M Kannegieter
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Nephrology and Transplantation, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam , Rotterdam , Netherlands
| | - Dennis A Hesselink
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Nephrology and Transplantation, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam , Rotterdam , Netherlands
| | - Carla C Baan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Nephrology and Transplantation, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam , Rotterdam , Netherlands
| | - Ajda T Rowshani
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Nephrology and Transplantation, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam , Rotterdam , Netherlands
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Herr F, Brunel M, Roders N, Durrbach A. Co-stimulation Blockade Plus T-Cell Depletion in Transplant Patients: Towards a Steroid- and Calcineurin Inhibitor-Free Future? Drugs 2016; 76:1589-1600. [DOI: 10.1007/s40265-016-0656-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Down-Regulation of Surface CD28 under Belatacept Treatment: An Escape Mechanism for Antigen-Reactive T-Cells. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0148604. [PMID: 26919152 PMCID: PMC4769294 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0148604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2015] [Accepted: 01/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The co-stimulatory inhibitor of the CD28-CD80/86-pathway, belatacept, allows calcineurin-inhibitor-free immunosuppression in kidney transplantation. However, aggressive T-cell mediated allogeneic responses have been observed in belatacept-treated patients, which could be explained by effector-memory T-cells that lack membrane expression of CD28, i.e. CD28-negative (CD28NULL) T-cells. CD28-positive (CD28POS) T-cells that down regulate their surface CD28 after allogeneic stimulation could also pose a threat against the renal graft. The aim of this study was to investigate this potential escape mechanism for CD28POS T-cells under belatacept treatment. Materials & Methods PBMCs, isolated T-cell memory subsets and isolated CD28POS T-cells were obtained from end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients and co-cultured with allo-antigen in the presence of belatacept to mimic allogeneic reactions in kidney-transplant patients under belatacept treatment. As a control, IgG was used in the absence of belatacept. Results Despite high in vitro belatacept concentrations, a residual T-cell growth of ±30% was observed compared to the IgG control after allogeneic stimulation. Of the alloreactive T-cells, the majority expressed an effector-memory phenotype. This predominance for effector-memory T-cells within the proliferated cells was even larger when a higher dose of belatacept was added. Contrary to isolated naïve and central-memory T cells, isolated effector-memory T cells could not be inhibited by belatacept in differentiation or allogeneic IFNγ production. The proportion of CD28-positive T cells was lower within the proliferated T cell population, but was still substantial. A fair number of the isolated initially CD28POS T-cells differentiated into CD28NULL T-cells, which made them not targetable by belatacept. These induced CD28NULL T-cells were not anergic as they produced high amounts of IFNγ upon allogeneic stimulation. The majority of the proliferated isolated originally CD28POS T-cells, however, still expressed CD28 and also expressed IFNγ. Conclusion This study provides evidence that, apart from CD28NULL T-cells, also CD28POS, mostly effector-memory T-cells can mediate allogeneic responses despite belatacept treatment.
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