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Madill-Thomsen K, Halloran P. Precision diagnostics in transplanted organs using microarray-assessed gene expression: concepts and technical methods of the Molecular Microscope® Diagnostic System (MMDx). Clin Sci (Lond) 2024; 138:663-685. [PMID: 38819301 PMCID: PMC11147747 DOI: 10.1042/cs20220530] [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] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
There is a major unmet need for improved accuracy and precision in the assessment of transplant rejection and tissue injury. Diagnoses relying on histologic and visual assessments demonstrate significant variation between expert observers (as represented by low kappa values) and have limited ability to assess many biological processes that produce little histologic changes, for example, acute injury. Consensus rules and guidelines for histologic diagnosis are useful but may have errors. Risks of over- or under-treatment can be serious: many therapies for transplant rejection or primary diseases are expensive and carry risk for significant adverse effects. Improved diagnostic methods could alleviate healthcare costs by reducing treatment errors, increase treatment efficacy, and serve as useful endpoints for clinical trials of new agents that can improve outcomes. Molecular diagnostic assessments using microarrays combined with machine learning algorithms for interpretation have shown promise for increasing diagnostic precision via probabilistic assessments, recalibrating standard of care diagnostic methods, clarifying ambiguous cases, and identifying potentially missed cases of rejection. This review describes the development and application of the Molecular Microscope® Diagnostic System (MMDx), and discusses the history and reasoning behind many common methods, statistical practices, and computational decisions employed to ensure that MMDx scores are as accurate and precise as possible. MMDx provides insights on disease processes and highly reproducible results from a comparatively small amount of tissue and constitutes a general approach that is useful in many areas of medicine, including kidney, heart, lung, and liver transplants, with the possibility of extrapolating lessons for understanding native organ disease states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katelynn S. Madill-Thomsen
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Alberta Transplant Applied Genomics Center, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Philip F. Halloran
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Alberta Transplant Applied Genomics Center, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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Srivastava A, Manchel A, Waters J, Ambelil M, Barnhart BK, Hoek JB, Shah AP, Vadigepalli R. Integrated transcriptomics and histopathology approach identifies a subset of rejected donor livers with potential suitability for transplantation. BMC Genomics 2024; 25:437. [PMID: 38698335 PMCID: PMC11067109 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-024-10362-7] [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] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver transplantation is an effective treatment for liver failure. There is a large unmet demand, even as not all donated livers are transplanted. The clinical selection criteria for donor livers based on histopathological evaluation and liver function tests are variable. We integrated transcriptomics and histopathology to characterize donor liver biopsies obtained at the time of organ recovery. We performed RNA sequencing as well as manual and artificial intelligence-based histopathology (10 accepted and 21 rejected for transplantation). RESULTS We identified two transcriptomically distinct rejected subsets (termed rejected-1 and rejected-2), where rejected-2 exhibited a near-complete transcriptomic overlap with the accepted livers, suggesting acceptability from a molecular standpoint. Liver metabolic functional genes were similarly upregulated, and extracellular matrix genes were similarly downregulated in the accepted and rejected-2 groups compared to rejected-1. The transcriptomic pattern of the rejected-2 subset was enriched for a gene expression signature of graft success post-transplantation. Serum AST, ALT, and total bilirubin levels showed similar overlapping patterns. Additional histopathological filtering identified cases with borderline scores and extensive molecular overlap with accepted donor livers. CONCLUSIONS Our integrated approach identified a subset of rejected donor livers that are likely suitable for transplantation, demonstrating the potential to expand the pool of transplantable livers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankita Srivastava
- Daniel Baugh Institute for Functional Genomics and Computational Biology, Department of Pathology and Genomic Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
| | - Alexandra Manchel
- Daniel Baugh Institute for Functional Genomics and Computational Biology, Department of Pathology and Genomic Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
| | - John Waters
- Daniel Baugh Institute for Functional Genomics and Computational Biology, Department of Pathology and Genomic Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
| | - Manju Ambelil
- Daniel Baugh Institute for Functional Genomics and Computational Biology, Department of Pathology and Genomic Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
| | - Benjamin K Barnhart
- Daniel Baugh Institute for Functional Genomics and Computational Biology, Department of Pathology and Genomic Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
| | - Jan B Hoek
- Daniel Baugh Institute for Functional Genomics and Computational Biology, Department of Pathology and Genomic Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
| | - Ashesh P Shah
- Department of Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Jefferson University Hospitals, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Rajanikanth Vadigepalli
- Daniel Baugh Institute for Functional Genomics and Computational Biology, Department of Pathology and Genomic Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA.
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3
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de Nattes T, Beadle J, Roufosse C. Biopsy-based transcriptomics in the diagnosis of kidney transplant rejection. Curr Opin Nephrol Hypertens 2024; 33:273-282. [PMID: 38411022 PMCID: PMC10990030 DOI: 10.1097/mnh.0000000000000974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The last year has seen considerable progress in translational research exploring the clinical utility of biopsy-based transcriptomics of kidney transplant biopsies to enhance the diagnosis of rejection. This review will summarize recent findings with a focus on different platforms, potential clinical applications, and barriers to clinical adoption. RECENT FINDINGS Recent literature has focussed on using biopsy-based transcriptomics to improve diagnosis of rejection, in particular antibody-mediated rejection. Different techniques of gene expression analysis (reverse transcriptase quantitative PCR, microarrays, probe-based techniques) have been used either on separate samples with ideally preserved RNA, or on left over tissue from routine biopsy processing. Despite remarkable consistency in overall patterns of gene expression, there is no consensus on acceptable indications, or whether biopsy-based transcriptomics adds significant value at reasonable cost to current diagnostic practice. SUMMARY Access to biopsy-based transcriptomics will widen as regulatory approvals for platforms and gene expression models develop. Clinicians need more evidence and guidance to inform decisions on how to use precious biopsy samples for biopsy-based transcriptomics, and how to integrate results with standard histology-based diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tristan de Nattes
- Univ Rouen Normandie, INSERM U1234, CHU Rouen, Department of Nephrology, Rouen, France
| | - Jack Beadle
- Centre for Inflammatory Diseases, Department of Immunology and Inflammation, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Candice Roufosse
- Centre for Inflammatory Diseases, Department of Immunology and Inflammation, Imperial College London, London, UK
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Van Loon E, Tinel C, de Loor H, Bossuyt X, Callemeyn J, Coemans M, De Vusser K, Sauvaget V, Olivre J, Koshy P, Kuypers D, Sprangers B, Van Craenenbroeck AH, Vaulet T, Anglicheau D, Naesens M. Automated Urinary Chemokine Assays for Noninvasive Detection of Kidney Transplant Rejection: A Prospective Cohort Study. Am J Kidney Dis 2024; 83:467-476. [PMID: 37777058 DOI: 10.1053/j.ajkd.2023.07.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE & OBJECTIVE Prior studies have demonstrated the diagnostic potential of urinary chemokines C-X-C motif ligand 9 (CXCL9) and CXCL10 for kidney transplant rejection. However, their benefit in addition to clinical information has not been demonstrated. We evaluated the diagnostic performance for detecting acute rejection of urinary CXCL9 and CXCL10 when integrated with clinical information. STUDY DESIGN Single-center prospective cohort study. SETTING & PARTICIPANTS We analyzed 1,559 biopsy-paired urinary samples from 622 kidney transplants performed between April 2013 and July 2019 at a single transplant center in Belgium. External validation was performed in 986 biopsy-paired urinary samples. TESTS COMPARED We quantified urinary CXCL9 (uCXCL9) and CXCL10 (uCXCL10) using an automated immunoassay platform and normalized the values to urinary creatinine. Urinary chemokines were incorporated into a multivariable model with routine clinical markers (estimated glomerular filtration rate, donor-specific antibodies, and polyoma viremia) (integrated model). This model was then compared with the tissue diagnosis according to the Banff classification for acute rejection. OUTCOME Acute rejection detected on kidney biopsy using the Banff classification. RESULTS Chemokines integrated with routine clinical markers had high diagnostic value for detection of acute rejection (n=150) (receiver operating characteristic area under the curve 81.3% [95% CI, 77.6-85.0]). The integrated model would help avoid 59 protocol biopsies per 100 patients when the risk for rejection is predicted to be below 10%. The performance of the integrated model was similar in the external validation cohort. LIMITATIONS The cross-sectional nature obviates investigating the evolution over time and prediction of future rejection. CONCLUSIONS The use of an integrated model of urinary chemokines and clinical markers for noninvasive monitoring of rejection could enable a reduction in the number of biopsies. Urinary chemokines may be useful noninvasive biomarkers whose use should be further studied in prospective randomized trials to clarify their role in guiding clinical care and the use of biopsies to detect rejection after kidney transplantation. PLAIN-LANGUAGE SUMMARY Urinary chemokines CXCL9 and CXCL10 have been suggested to be good noninvasive biomarkers of kidney transplant rejection. However, defining a context of use and integration with clinical information is necessary before clinical implementation can begin. In this study, we demonstrated that urinary chemokines CXCL9 and CXCL10, together with clinical information, have substantial diagnostic accuracy for the detection of acute kidney transplant rejection. Application of urinary chemokines together with clinical information may guide biopsy practices following kidney transplantation and potentially reduce the need for kidney transplant biopsies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabet Van Loon
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation Research Group, KU Leuven, Leuven; Department of Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Claire Tinel
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation Research Group, KU Leuven, Leuven
| | - Henriette de Loor
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation Research Group, KU Leuven, Leuven
| | - Xavier Bossuyt
- Clinical and Diagnostic Immunology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven; Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jasper Callemeyn
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation Research Group, KU Leuven, Leuven; Department of Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Maarten Coemans
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation Research Group, KU Leuven, Leuven
| | - Katrien De Vusser
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation Research Group, KU Leuven, Leuven; Department of Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | | | | | - Dirk Kuypers
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation Research Group, KU Leuven, Leuven; Department of Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ben Sprangers
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation Research Group, KU Leuven, Leuven; Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, KU Leuven, Leuven
| | - Amaryllis H Van Craenenbroeck
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation Research Group, KU Leuven, Leuven; Department of Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Thibaut Vaulet
- ESAT STADIUS Center for Dynamical Systems, Signal Processing and Data Analytics, KU Leuven, Leuven
| | - Dany Anglicheau
- INSERM U1151, Université de Paris, Paris, France; Department of Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation, RTRS Centaure, Necker Hospital, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Maarten Naesens
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation Research Group, KU Leuven, Leuven; Department of Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
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Gauthier PT, Madill-Thomsen KS, Demko Z, Prewett A, Gauthier P, Halloran PF. Distinct Molecular Processes Mediate Donor-derived Cell-free DNA Release From Kidney Transplants in Different Disease States. Transplantation 2024; 108:898-910. [PMID: 38150492 PMCID: PMC10962427 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000004877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Among all biopsies in the Trifecta-Kidney Study ( ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04239703), elevated plasma donor-derived cell-free DNA (dd-cfDNA) correlated most strongly with molecular antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) but was also elevated in other states: T cell-mediated rejection (TCMR), acute kidney injury (AKI), and some apparently normal biopsies. The present study aimed to define the molecular correlates of plasma dd-cfDNA within specific states. METHODS Dd-cfDNA was measured by the Prospera test. Molecular rejection and injury states were defined using the Molecular Microscope system. We studied the correlation between dd-cfDNA and the expression of genes, transcript sets, and classifier scores within specific disease states, and compared AMR, TCMR, and AKI to biopsies classified as normal and no injury (NRNI). RESULTS In all 604 biopsies, dd-cfDNA was elevated in AMR, TCMR, and AKI. Within AMR biopsies, dd-cfDNA correlated with AMR activity and stage. Within AKI, the correlations reflected acute parenchymal injury, including cell cycling. Within biopsies classified as MMDx Normal and archetypal No injury (NRNI), dd-cfDNA still correlated significantly with rejection- and injury-related genes. TCMR activity (eg, the TCMR Prob classifier) correlated with dd-cfDNA, but within TCMR biopsies, top gene correlations were complex and not the top TCMR-selective genes. CONCLUSIONS In kidney transplants, elevated plasma dd-cfDNA is associated with 3 distinct molecular states in the donor tissue: AMR, recent parenchymal injury (including cell cycling), and TCMR, potentially complicated by parenchymal disruption. Moreover, subtle rejection- and injury-related changes in the donor tissue can contribute to dd-cfDNA elevations in transplants considered to have no rejection or injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick T. Gauthier
- Alberta Transplant Applied Genomics Centre, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Transcriptome Sciences Inc, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Katelynn S. Madill-Thomsen
- Alberta Transplant Applied Genomics Centre, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Transcriptome Sciences Inc, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Philip F. Halloran
- Alberta Transplant Applied Genomics Centre, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Transcriptome Sciences Inc, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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6
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Halloran PF, Reeve J, Mackova M, Madill-Thomsen KS, Demko Z, Olymbios M, Campbell P, Melenovsky V, Gong T, Hall S, Stehlik J. Comparing Plasma Donor-derived Cell-free DNA to Gene Expression in Endomyocardial Biopsies in the Trifecta-Heart Study. Transplantation 2024:00007890-990000000-00702. [PMID: 38538559 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000004986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Plasma donor-derived cell-free DNA (dd-cfDNA) is used to screen for rejection in heart transplants. We launched the Trifecta-Heart study (ClinicalTrials.gov No. NCT04707872), an investigator-initiated, prospective trial, to examine the correlations between genome-wide molecular changes in endomyocardial biopsies (EMBs) and plasma dd-cfDNA. The present report analyzes the correlation of plasma dd-cfDNA with gene expression in EMBs from 4 vanguard centers and compared these correlations with those in 604 kidney transplant biopsies in the Trifecta-Kidney study (ClinicalTrials.gov No. NCT04239703). METHODS We analyzed 137 consecutive dd-cfDNA-EMB pairs from 70 patients. Plasma %dd-cfDNA was measured by the Prospera test (Natera Inc), and gene expression in EMBs was assessed by Molecular Microscope Diagnostic System using machine-learning algorithms to interpret rejection and injury states. RESULTS Top transcripts correlating with dd-cfDNA were related to genes increased in rejection such as interferon gamma-inducible genes (eg, HLA-DMA ) but also with genes induced by injury and expressed in macrophages (eg, SERPINA1 and HMOX1 ). In gene enrichment analysis, the top dd-cfDNA-correlated genes reflected inflammation and rejection pathways. Dd-cfDNA correlations with rejection genes in EMB were similar to those seen in kidney transplant biopsies, with somewhat stronger correlations for TCMR genes in hearts and ABMR genes in kidneys. However, the correlations with parenchymal injury-induced genes and macrophage genes were much stronger in hearts. CONCLUSIONS In this first analysis of Trifecta-Heart study, dd-cfDNA correlates significantly with molecular rejection but also with injury and macrophage infiltration, reflecting the proinflammatory properties of injured cardiomyocytes. The relationship supports the utility of dd-cfDNA in clinical management of heart transplant recipients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip F Halloran
- Alberta Transplant Applied Genomics Center, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Transcriptome Sciences Inc, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Jeff Reeve
- Alberta Transplant Applied Genomics Center, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Transcriptome Sciences Inc, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Martina Mackova
- Alberta Transplant Applied Genomics Center, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Transcriptome Sciences Inc, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Katelynn S Madill-Thomsen
- Alberta Transplant Applied Genomics Center, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Transcriptome Sciences Inc, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Josef Stehlik
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
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7
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Harmacek D, Weidmann L, Castrezana Lopez K, Schmid N, Korach R, Bortel N, von Moos S, Rho E, Helmchen B, Gaspert A, Schachtner T. Molecular diagnosis of antibody-mediated rejection: Evaluating biopsy-based transcript diagnostics in the presence of donor-specific antibodies but without microvascular inflammation, a single-center descriptive analysis. Am J Transplant 2024:S1600-6135(24)00244-2. [PMID: 38548057 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajt.2024.03.034] [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: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
Biopsy-based transcript diagnostics may identify molecular antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) when microvascular inflammation (MVI) is absent. In this single-center cohort, biopsy-based transcript diagnostics were validated in 326 kidney allograft biopsies. A total of 71 histological AMR and 35 T cell-mediated rejection (TCMR) cases were identified as molecular AMR and TCMR in 55% and 63%, respectively. Among 121 cases without MVI (glomerulitis + peritubular capillaritis = 0), 45 (37%) donor-specific antibody (DSA)-positive and 76 (63%) DSA-negative cases were analyzed. Twenty-one out of the 121 (17%) cases showed borderline changes, or TCMR, while BK nephropathy was excluded. None of the 45 DSA-positive patients showed molecular AMR. Among 76 DSA-negative patients, 2 had mixed molecular AMR/TCMR. All-AMR phenotype scores (sum of R4-R6) exhibited median values of 0.13 and 0.12 for DSA-positive and DSA-negative patients, respectively (P = .84). A total of 13% (6/45) DSA-positive and 11% (8/76) DSA-negative patients showed an all-AMR phenotype score > 0.30 (P = .77). Patients with a higher all-AMR phenotype score showed 33% more histologic TCMR (P = .005). The median all-AMR phenotype scores of glomerular basement membrane double contours = 0 and glomerular basement membrane double contours > 0 biopsies were 0.12 and 0.10, respectively (P = .35). Biopsy-based transcript diagnostics did not identify molecular AMR in cases without MVI. Follow-up biopsies and outcome data should evaluate the clinical relevance of subthreshold molecular alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dusan Harmacek
- Division of Nephrology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Lukas Weidmann
- Division of Nephrology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Nicolas Schmid
- Division of Nephrology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Raphael Korach
- Division of Nephrology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nicola Bortel
- Division of Nephrology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Seraina von Moos
- Division of Nephrology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Elena Rho
- Division of Nephrology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Birgit Helmchen
- Institute of Pathology and Molecular Pathology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ariana Gaspert
- Institute of Pathology and Molecular Pathology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Schachtner
- Division of Nephrology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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Naesens M, Roufosse C, Haas M, Lefaucheur C, Mannon RB, Adam BA, Aubert O, Böhmig GA, Callemeyn J, Clahsen-van Groningen M, Cornell LD, Demetris AJ, Drachenberg CB, Einecke G, Fogo AB, Gibson IW, Halloran P, Hidalgo LG, Horsfield C, Huang E, Kikić Ž, Kozakowski N, Nankivell B, Rabant M, Randhawa P, Riella LV, Sapir-Pichhadze R, Schinstock C, Solez K, Tambur AR, Thaunat O, Wiebe C, Zielinski D, Colvin R, Loupy A, Mengel M. The Banff 2022 Kidney Meeting Report: Reappraisal of microvascular inflammation and the role of biopsy-based transcript diagnostics. Am J Transplant 2024; 24:338-349. [PMID: 38032300 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajt.2023.10.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
The XVI-th Banff Meeting for Allograft Pathology was held at Banff, Alberta, Canada, from 19th to 23rd September 2022, as a joint meeting with the Canadian Society of Transplantation. To mark the 30th anniversary of the first Banff Classification, premeeting discussions were held on the past, present, and future of the Banff Classification. This report is a summary of the meeting highlights that were most important in terms of their effect on the Classification, including discussions around microvascular inflammation and biopsy-based transcript analysis for diagnosis. In a postmeeting survey, agreement was reached on the delineation of the following phenotypes: (1) "Probable antibody-mediated rejection (AMR)," which represents donor-specific antibodies (DSA)-positive cases with some histologic features of AMR but below current thresholds for a definitive AMR diagnosis; and (2) "Microvascular inflammation, DSA-negative and C4d-negative," a phenotype of unclear cause requiring further study, which represents cases with microvascular inflammation not explained by DSA. Although biopsy-based transcript diagnostics are considered promising and remain an integral part of the Banff Classification (limited to diagnosis of AMR), further work needs to be done to agree on the exact classifiers, thresholds, and clinical context of use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maarten Naesens
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Candice Roufosse
- Department of Immunology and Inflammation, Faculty Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK.
| | - Mark Haas
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Carmen Lefaucheur
- Université Paris Cité, INSERM, PARCC, Paris Institute for Transplantation and Organ Regeneration, France & Department of Nephrology and Transplantation, Saint-Louis Hospital, Paris, France
| | | | - Benjamin A Adam
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Olivier Aubert
- Université Paris Cité, INSERM, PARCC, Paris Institute for Transplantation and Organ Regeneration, France & Department of Transplantation, Necker Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Georg A Böhmig
- Division of Nephrology and Dialysis, Department of Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Jasper Callemeyn
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Marian Clahsen-van Groningen
- Department of Pathology and Clinical Bioinformatics, Erasmus University Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands, Institute of Experimental Medicine and Systems Biology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Lynn D Cornell
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Anthony J Demetris
- UPMC Hepatic and Transplantation Pathology, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Gunilla Einecke
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Agnes B Fogo
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Ian W Gibson
- Department of Pathology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Philip Halloran
- Department of Medicine, Alberta Transplant Applied Genomics Centre, Heritage Medical Research Centre, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Luis G Hidalgo
- Department of Surgery, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | | | - Edmund Huang
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, West Hollywood, California, USA
| | - Željko Kikić
- Department of Urology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Brian Nankivell
- Department of Renal Medicine, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Marion Rabant
- Pathology department, Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Parmjeet Randhawa
- Department of Pathology, Thomas E. Starzl Transplant Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Leonardo V Riella
- Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ruth Sapir-Pichhadze
- Division of Nephrology & Multi-Organ Transplant Program, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Carrie Schinstock
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Kim Solez
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Anat R Tambur
- Comprehensive Transplant Center, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Olivier Thaunat
- Department of Transplantation Nephrology and Clinical Immunology, Edouard Herriot Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Chris Wiebe
- Department of Medicine and Department of Immunology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Dina Zielinski
- Université Paris Cité, INSERM, PARCC, Paris Institute for Transplantation and Organ Regeneration, France & Department of Transplantation, Necker Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Robert Colvin
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Alexandre Loupy
- Université Paris Cité, INSERM, PARCC, Paris Institute for Transplantation and Organ Regeneration, France & Department of Transplantation, Necker Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Michael Mengel
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
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Zhang H, Haun RS, Collin F, Cassol C, Napier JOH, Wilson J, Hassen S, Ararat K, Boils C, Messias N, Caza TN, Cossey LN, Sharma S, Ambruzs JM, Agrawal N, Shekhtman G, Tian W, Srinivas T, Qu K, Woodward RN, Larsen CP, Stone S, Coley SM. Development and Validation of a Multiclass Model Defining Molecular Archetypes of Kidney Transplant Rejection: A Large Cohort Study of the Banff Human Organ Transplant Gene Expression Panel. J Transl Med 2024; 104:100304. [PMID: 38092179 DOI: 10.1016/j.labinv.2023.100304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Gene expression profiling from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) renal allograft biopsies is a promising approach for feasibly providing a molecular diagnosis of rejection. However, large-scale studies evaluating the performance of models using NanoString platform data to define molecular archetypes of rejection are lacking. We tested a diverse retrospective cohort of over 1400 FFPE biopsy specimens, rescored according to Banff 2019 criteria and representing 10 of 11 United Network of Organ Sharing regions, using the Banff Human Organ Transplant panel from NanoString and developed a multiclass model from the gene expression data to assign relative probabilities of 4 molecular archetypes: No Rejection, Antibody-Mediated Rejection, T Cell-Mediated Rejection, and Mixed Rejection. Using Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator regularized regression with 10-fold cross-validation fitted to 1050 biopsies in the discovery cohort and technically validated on an additional 345 biopsies, our model achieved overall accuracy of 85% in the discovery cohort and 80% in the validation cohort, with ≥75% positive predictive value for each class, except for the Mixed Rejection class in the validation cohort (positive predictive value, 53%). This study represents the technical validation of the first model built from a large and diverse sample of diagnostic FFPE biopsy specimens to define and classify molecular archetypes of histologically defined diagnoses as derived from Banff Human Organ Transplant panel gene expression profiling data.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Jon Wilson
- Arkana Laboratories, Little Rock, Arkansas
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10
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Sikosana ML, Reeve J, Madill-Thomsen KS, Halloran PF. Using Regression Equations to Enhance Interpretation of Histology Lesions of Kidney Transplant Rejection. Transplantation 2024; 108:445-454. [PMID: 37726883 PMCID: PMC10798587 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000004783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Banff system for histologic diagnosis of rejection in kidney transplant biopsies uses guidelines to assess designated features-lesions, donor-specific antibody (DSA), and C4d staining. We explored whether using regression equations to interpret the features as well as current guidelines could establish the relative importance of each feature and improve histologic interpretation. METHODS We developed logistic regression equations using the designated features to predict antibody-mediated rejection (AMR/mixed) and T-cell-mediated rejection (TCMR/mixed) in 1679 indication biopsies from the INTERCOMEX study ( ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01299168). Equations were trained on molecular diagnoses independent of the designated features. RESULTS In regression and random forests, the important features predicting molecular rejection were as follows: for AMR, ptc and g, followed by cg; for TCMR, t > i. V-lesions were relatively unimportant. C4d and DSA were also relatively unimportant for predicting AMR: by AUC, the model excluding them (0.853) was nearly as good as the model including them (0.860). Including time posttransplant slightly but significantly improved all models. By AUC, regression predicted molecular AMR and TCMR better than Banff histologic diagnoses. More importantly, in biopsies called "no rejection" by Banff guidelines, regression equations based on histology features identified histologic and molecular rejection-related changes in some biopsies and improved survival predictions. Thus, regression can screen for missed rejection. CONCLUSIONS Using lesion-based regression equations in addition to Banff histology guidelines defines the relative important of histology features for identifying rejection, allows screening for potential missed diagnoses, and permits early estimates of AMR when C4d and DSA are not available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majid L.N. Sikosana
- Division of Nephrology and Transplant Immunology, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Jeff Reeve
- Alberta Transplant Applied Genomics Centre, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | | | - Philip F. Halloran
- Division of Nephrology and Transplant Immunology, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Alberta Transplant Applied Genomics Centre, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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11
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Randhawa PS. Caveats in Interpretation of Molecular Diagnostics in Heart Allografts. Transplantation 2024:00007890-990000000-00636. [PMID: 38294835 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000004895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Histologic separation of injury, T cell-mediated rejection, or antibody-mediated rejection in allograft heart biopsies is difficult. A critical review of publications was performed to evaluate the caveats of using molecular diagnostics (MDX) to distinguish between these entities. Typically, only 1 to 2 fragments of unknown histologic appearance are evaluated. Archetype and molecular classifier analyses use gene lists derived from histologic labels and associated reproducibility issues influence the accuracy of the derived MDX classes. Archetypes A1, A2, and A3 archetypes created by bioinformatics were renamed no rejection, T cell-mediated rejection, and antibody-mediated rejection despite as little as 40% concordance with histologic diagnoses and overlapping archetype scores. Additional archetypes S4 and minor injury were created using arbitrary cutoffs based on visual examination of principal component analysis plots. Therapeutic implications of the numerous discrepancies with histology remain unexplored. Many MDX-derived observations are ambiguous and open to alternate logical explanations. Better molecular methods and more rigorous validation studies are needed to advance the field. Ideally, these methods should analyze all available biopsy fragments to minimize sampling issues. It is also desirable to incorporate spatial transcriptomics into the workflow, so that gene expression data can be directly compared with the underlying histology lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parmjeet S Randhawa
- Department of Pathology, The Thomas E Starzl Transplantation Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
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12
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Han HS, Lubetzky ML. Immune monitoring of allograft status in kidney transplant recipients. FRONTIERS IN NEPHROLOGY 2023; 3:1293907. [PMID: 38022723 PMCID: PMC10663942 DOI: 10.3389/fneph.2023.1293907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Kidney transplant patients require careful management of immunosuppression to avoid rejection while minimizing the risk of infection and malignancy for the best long-term outcome. The gold standard for monitoring allograft status and immunosuppression adequacy is a kidney biopsy, but this is invasive and costly. Conventional methods of allograft monitoring, such as serum creatinine level, are non-specific. Although they alert physicians to the need to evaluate graft dysfunction, by the time there is a clinical abnormality, allograft damage may have already occurred. The development of novel and non-invasive methods of evaluating allograft status are important to improving graft outcomes. This review summarizes the available conventional and novel methods for monitoring allograft status after kidney transplant. Novel and less invasive methods include gene expression, cell-free DNA, urinary biomarkers, and the use of artificial intelligence. The optimal method to manage patients after kidney transplant is still being investigated. The development of less invasive methods to assess allograft function has the potential to improve patient outcomes and allow for a more personalized approach to immunosuppression management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hwarang S. Han
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
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13
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Mubarak M, Raza A, Rashid R, Shakeel S. Evolution of human kidney allograft pathology diagnostics through 30 years of the Banff classification process. World J Transplant 2023; 13:221-238. [PMID: 37746037 PMCID: PMC10514746 DOI: 10.5500/wjt.v13.i5.221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The second half of the previous century witnessed a tremendous rise in the number of clinical kidney transplants worldwide. This activity was, however, accompanied by many issues and challenges. An accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of causes of graft dysfunction were and still are, a big challenge. Kidney allograft biopsy played a vital role in addressing the above challenge. However, its interpretation was not standardized for many years until, in 1991, the Banff process was started to fill this void. Thereafter, regular Banff meetings took place every 2 years for the past 30 years. Marked changes have taken place in the interpretation of kidney allograft biopsies, diagnosis, and classification of rejection and other non-rejection pathologies from the original Banff 93 classification. This review attempts to summarize those changes for increasing the awareness and understanding of kidney allograft pathology through the eyes of the Banff process. It will interest the transplant surgeons, physicians, pathologists, and allied professionals associated with the care of kidney transplant patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammed Mubarak
- Department of Histopathology, Sindh Institute of Urology and Transplantation, Karachi 74200, Sindh, Pakistan
| | - Amber Raza
- Department of Nephrology, Sindh Institute of Urology and Transplantation, Karachi 74200, Sindh, Pakistan
| | - Rahma Rashid
- Department of Histopathology, Sindh Institute of Urology and Transplantation, Karachi 74200, Sindh, Pakistan
| | - Shaheera Shakeel
- Department of Histopathology, Sindh Institute of Urology and Transplantation, Karachi 74200, Sindh, Pakistan
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14
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Madill-Thomsen KS, Böhmig GA, Bromberg J, Einecke G, Eskandary F, Gupta G, Myslak M, Viklicky O, Perkowska-Ptasinska A, Solez K, Halloran PF. Relating Molecular T Cell-mediated Rejection Activity in Kidney Transplant Biopsies to Time and to Histologic Tubulitis and Atrophy-fibrosis. Transplantation 2023; 107:1102-1114. [PMID: 36575574 PMCID: PMC10125115 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000004396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We studied the variation in molecular T cell-mediated rejection (TCMR) activity in kidney transplant indication biopsies and its relationship with histologic lesions (particularly tubulitis and atrophy-fibrosis) and time posttransplant. METHODS We examined 175 kidney transplant biopsies with molecular TCMR as defined by archetypal analysis in the INTERCOMEX study ( ClinicalTrials.gov #NCT01299168). TCMR activity was defined by a molecular classifier. RESULTS Archetypal analysis identified 2 TCMR classes, TCMR1 and TCMR2: TCMR1 had higher TCMR activity and more antibody-mediated rejection ("mixed") activity and arteritis but little hyalinosis, whereas TCMR2 had less TCMR activity but more atrophy-fibrosis. TCMR1 and TCMR2 had similar levels of molecular injury and tubulitis. Both TCMR1 and TCMR2 biopsies were uncommon after 2 y posttransplant and were rare after 10 y, particularly TCMR1. Within late TCMR biopsies, TCMR classifier activity and activity molecules such as IFNG fell progressively with time, but tubulitis and molecular injury were sustained. Atrophy-fibrosis was increased in TCMR biopsies, even in the first year posttransplant, and rose with time posttransplant. TCMR1 and TCMR2 both reduced graft survival, but in random forests, the strongest determinant of survival after biopsies with TCMR was molecular injury, not TCMR activity. CONCLUSIONS TCMR varies in intensity but is always strongly related to molecular injury and atrophy-fibrosis, which ultimately explains its effect on survival. We hypothesize, based on the reciprocal relationship with hyalinosis, that the TCMR1-TCMR2 gradient reflects calcineurin inhibitor drug underexposure, whereas the time-dependent decline in TCMR activity and frequency after the first year reflects T-cell exhaustion.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Georg A. Böhmig
- Division of Nephrology and Dialysis, Department of Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Gunilla Einecke
- Department of Nephrology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Farsad Eskandary
- Division of Nephrology and Dialysis, Department of Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gaurav Gupta
- Division of Nephrology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA
| | - Marek Myslak
- Department of Clinical Interventions, Department of Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation SPWSZ Hospital, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Ondrej Viklicky
- Department of Nephrology and Transplant Center, Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Prague, Czech Republic
| | | | - Kim Solez
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Division of Anatomical Pathology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Philip F. Halloran
- Alberta Transplant Applied Genomics Centre, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Division of Nephrology and Transplant Immunology, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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15
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Smith RN, Rosales IA, Tomaszewski KT, Mahowald GT, Araujo-Medina M, Acheampong E, Bruce A, Rios A, Otsuka T, Tsuji T, Hotta K, Colvin R. Utility of Banff Human Organ Transplant Gene Panel in Human Kidney Transplant Biopsies. Transplantation 2023; 107:1188-1199. [PMID: 36525551 PMCID: PMC10132999 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000004389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Microarray transcript analysis of human renal transplantation biopsies has successfully identified the many patterns of graft rejection. To evaluate an alternative, this report tests whether gene expression from the Banff Human Organ Transplant (B-HOT) probe set panel, derived from validated microarrays, can identify the relevant allograft diagnoses directly from archival human renal transplant formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded biopsies. To test this hypothesis, principal components (PCs) of gene expressions were used to identify allograft diagnoses, to classify diagnoses, and to determine whether the PC data were rich enough to identify diagnostic subtypes by clustering, which are all needed if the B-HOT panel can substitute for microarrays. METHODS RNA was isolated from routine, archival formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue renal biopsy cores with both rejection and nonrejection diagnoses. The B-HOT panel expression of 770 genes was analyzed by PCs, which were then tested to determine their ability to identify diagnoses. RESULTS PCs of microarray gene sets identified the Banff categories of renal allograft diagnoses, modeled well the aggregate diagnoses, showing a similar correspondence with the pathologic diagnoses as microarrays. Clustering of the PCs identified diagnostic subtypes including non-chronic antibody-mediated rejection with high endothelial expression. PCs of cell types and pathways identified new mechanistic patterns including differential expression of B and plasma cells. CONCLUSIONS Using PCs of gene expression from the B-Hot panel confirms the utility of the B-HOT panel to identify allograft diagnoses and is similar to microarrays. The B-HOT panel will accelerate and expand transcript analysis and will be useful for longitudinal and outcome studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rex N Smith
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Center for Transplantation Sciences, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Ivy A Rosales
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Center for Transplantation Sciences, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Kristen T Tomaszewski
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Center for Transplantation Sciences, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Grace T Mahowald
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Milagros Araujo-Medina
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Ellen Acheampong
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Amy Bruce
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Andrea Rios
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Takuya Otsuka
- Department of Surgical Pathology, Hokkaido University Hospital, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Takahiro Tsuji
- Department of Pathology, Sapporo City General Hospital, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Kiyohiko Hotta
- Department of Urology, Hokkaido University Hospital, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Robert Colvin
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Center for Transplantation Sciences, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
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16
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de Nattes T, Beadle J, Toulza F, Candon E, Ruminy P, François A, Bertrand D, Guerrot D, Drieux F, Roufosse C, Candon S. A Simple Molecular Tool for the Assessment of Kidney Transplant Biopsies. Clin J Am Soc Nephrol 2023; 18:499-509. [PMID: 36723289 PMCID: PMC10103338 DOI: 10.2215/cjn.0000000000000100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Banff Classification for Allograft Pathology recommendations for the diagnosis of kidney transplant rejection includes molecular assessment of the transplant biopsy. However, implementation of molecular tools in clinical practice is still limited, partly due to the required expertise and financial investment. The reverse transcriptase multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (RT-MLPA) assay is a simple, rapid, and inexpensive assay that permits simultaneous evaluation of a restricted gene panel using paraffin-embedded tissue blocks. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a RT-MLPA assay for diagnosis and classification of rejection. METHODS A retrospective cohort of 220 kidney transplant biopsies from two centers, which included 52 antibody-mediated rejection, 51 T-cell-mediated rejection, and 117 no-rejection controls, was assessed. A 17-gene panel was identified on the basis of relevant pathophysiological pathways. A support vector machine classifier was developed. A subset of 109 biopsies was also assessed using the Nanostring Banff Human Organ Transplant panel to compare the two assays. RESULTS The support vector machine classifier train and test accuracy scores were 0.84 and 0.83, respectively. In the test cohort, the F1 score for antibody-mediated rejection, T-cell-mediated rejection, and control were 0.88, 0.86, and 0.69, respectively. Using receiver-operating characteristic curves, the area under the curve for class predictions was 0.96, 0.89, and 0.91, respectively, with a weighted average at 0.94. Classifiers' performances were highest for antibody-mediated rejection diagnosis with 94% correct predictions, compared with 88% correct predictions for control biopsies and 60% for T-cell-mediated rejection biopsies. Gene expression levels assessed by RT-MLPA and Nanostring were correlated: r = 0.68, P < 0.001. Equivalent gene expression profiles were obtained with both assays in 81% of the samples. CONCLUSIONS The 17-gene panel RT-MLPA assay, developed here for formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded kidney transplant biopsies, classified kidney transplant rejection with an overall accurate prediction ratio of 0.83. PODCAST This article contains a podcast at https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/www.asn-online.org/media/podcast/CJASN/2023_04_10_CJN10100822.mp3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tristan de Nattes
- Nephrology – Kidney Transplant Unit, Rouen University Hospital, Rouen, France
- Univ Rouen Normandie, INSERM U1234, Rouen, France
- Department of Immunology and Inflammation, Centre for Inflammatory Diseases, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jack Beadle
- Department of Immunology and Inflammation, Centre for Inflammatory Diseases, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
| | - Frederic Toulza
- Department of Immunology and Inflammation, Centre for Inflammatory Diseases, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
| | - Edvin Candon
- Nephrology – Kidney Transplant Unit, Rouen University Hospital, Rouen, France
| | - Philippe Ruminy
- Univ Rouen Normandie, INSERM U1245, Centre Henri Becquerel, Rouen, France
| | - Arnaud François
- Pathology Department, Rouen University Hospital, Rouen, France
| | - Dominique Bertrand
- Nephrology – Kidney Transplant Unit, Rouen University Hospital, Rouen, France
| | - Dominique Guerrot
- Nephrology – Kidney Transplant Unit, Rouen University Hospital, Rouen, France
| | - Fanny Drieux
- Univ Rouen Normandie, INSERM U1245, Centre Henri Becquerel, Rouen, France
- Pathology Department, Rouen University Hospital, Rouen, France
| | - Candice Roufosse
- Department of Immunology and Inflammation, Centre for Inflammatory Diseases, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
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17
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Halloran PF, Reeve J, Madill-Thomsen KS, Demko Z, Prewett A, Gauthier P, Billings P, Lawrence C, Lowe D, Hidalgo LG. Antibody-mediated Rejection Without Detectable Donor-specific Antibody Releases Donor-derived Cell-free DNA: Results From the Trifecta Study. Transplantation 2023; 107:709-719. [PMID: 36190186 PMCID: PMC9946174 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000004324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Trifecta (ClinicalTrials.gov #NCT04239703) is a prospective trial defining relationships between donor-derived cell-free DNA (dd-cfDNA), donor-specific antibody (DSA), and molecular findings in kidney transplant biopsies. Previous analyses of double results showed dd-cfDNA was strongly associated with rejection-associated molecules in the biopsy. The present study analyzed the triple results in 280 biopsies, focusing on the question of dd-cfDNA levels in DSA-negative antibody-mediated rejection (AMR). METHODS Molecular Microscope Diagnostic System biopsy testing was performed at Alberta Transplant Applied Genomics Centre, dd-cfDNA testing at Natera, Inc, and central HLA antibody testing at One Lambda Inc. Local DSA and histologic diagnoses were assigned per center standard-of-care. RESULTS DSA was frequently negative in both molecular (56%) and histologic (51%) AMR. DSA-negative AMR had slightly less molecular AMR activity and histologic peritubular capillaritis than DSA-positive AMR. However, all AMRs-DSA-positive or -negative-showed elevated %dd-cfDNA. There was no association between dd-cfDNA and DSA in biopsies without rejection. In AMR, %dd-cfDNA ≥1.0 was more frequent (75%) than DSA positivity (44%). In logistic regression, dd-cfDNA percent (area under the curve [AUC] 0.85) or quantity (AUC 0.86) predicted molecular AMR better than DSA (AUC 0.66). However, the best predictions incorporated both dd-cfDNA and DSA, plus time posttransplant (AUC 0.88). CONCLUSIONS DSA-negative AMR has moderately decreased mean molecular and histologic AMR-associated features compared with DSA-positive AMR, though similarly elevated dd-cfDNA levels. In predicting AMR at the time of indication biopsies in this population, dd-cfDNA is superior to DSA, reflecting the prevalence of DSA-negative AMR, but the optimal predictions incorporated both dd-cfDNA and DSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip F. Halloran
- Alberta Transplant Applied Genomics Center, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Transcriptome Sciences, Inc, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Jeff Reeve
- Alberta Transplant Applied Genomics Center, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Luis G. Hidalgo
- Division of Transplantation, Department of Surgery, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
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18
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The Molecular Diagnosis Might Be Clinically Useful in Discrepant Kidney Allograft Biopsy Findings: An Analysis of Clinical Outcomes. Transplantation 2023; 107:485-494. [PMID: 36117252 PMCID: PMC9875837 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000004284] [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] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Molecular Microscope Diagnostic System (MMDx) may overcome histology shortcomings. Previous studies have simply examined discrepant findings but have not attempted to determine clinical endpoints. To measure performance, clinical outcomes are strongly required. METHODS This single-center cohort study described discrepancies between MMDx and histology from 51 kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) and analyzed 72 indication biopsies, including 21 follow-up biopsies. Clinical performance was assessed by a combined endpoint of graft failure, rejection on follow-up biopsy, de novo donor-specific antibody, and improvement of kidney allograft function upon antirejection treatment. RESULTS MMDx agreed in 33 (65%) and differed in 18 (35%) of 51 KTRs. Most discrepancies occurred in biopsies called no rejection by MMDx and rejection by histology (15/24, 63%). In contrast, in biopsies called rejection by MMDx, 3 were classified as no rejection by histology (3/27, 11%). Discrepant findings between MMDx and histology occurred following delayed graft function and MMDx from biopsies with a low percentage of cortex. Among 15 biopsies classified as no rejection by MMDx but rejection by histology, the clinical course suggested no rejection in 9 cases. Six KTRs reached the endpoint, showing predominant t ≥ 2 lesions. CONCLUSIONS The most often occurring discrepancy is rejection by histology but no rejection by MMDx. As more KTRs do not meet the combined endpoint for rejection, MMDx might be clinically useful in these discrepant cases. Although strong histological findings have priority in indicating the treatment, clinical implementation of MMDx could strengthen treatment strategies.
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19
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Huang E, Haas M, Gillespie M, Sethi S, Peng A, Najjar R, Vo A, Jordan SC. An Assessment of the Value of Donor-derived Cell-free DNA Surveillance in Patients With Preserved Kidney Allograft Function. Transplantation 2023; 107:274-282. [PMID: 35913057 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000004267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Donor-derived cell-free DNA (dd-cfDNA) is a biomarker validated to detect rejection when measured to assess kidney allograft dysfunction. However, it remains unclear whether routine surveillance with dd-cfDNA provides additional information over standard monitoring of kidney allografts with creatinine and donor-specific antibodies (DSAs), particularly among those with little suspicion of rejection or injury. We investigated the value of measuring dd-cfDNA in patients with preserved allograft function and describe its association with future events. METHODS Three-hundred seventeen kidney transplant recipients with a creatinine ≤1.5 mg/dL, no current DSA, and no prior rejection were assessed with dd-cfDNA and categorized into low (dd-cfDNA <0.5%; n = 239), moderate (dd-cfDNA 0.5% to <1.0%; n = 43), and high (dd-cfDNA ≥1.0%; n = 35) groups. The occurrence of rejection, DSA, graft loss, and change in estimated glomerular filtration rate over time after dd-cfDNA assessment was compared. RESULTS Over follow-up, rejections were more commonly found among patients with high vs low dd-cfDNA (17% versus 5%; P = 0.01); a similar nonsignificant trend was observed among patients with moderate compared to low dd-cfDNA (12% versus 5%; P = 0.13). DSA development was uncommon and not different between groups (low: 4%; moderate: 3%; high: 0%; P = 0.52). There was only 1 graft loss in a patient with low dd-cfDNA, and dd-cfDNA was not associated with graft dysfunction over time. CONCLUSIONS Most patients with elevated dd-cfDNA in conjunction with preserved allograft function remained stable over follow-up without deterioration in function or graft loss. Studies are needed to differentiate patients with elevated dd-cfDNA who will develop adverse outcomes from those who will remain clinically stable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edmund Huang
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Mark Haas
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Matt Gillespie
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Supreet Sethi
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Alice Peng
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Reiad Najjar
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Ashley Vo
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Stanley C Jordan
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA
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El Sabagh A, Mohamed IB, Aloor FZ, Abdelwahab A, Hassan MM, Jalal PK. Current Status of Biomarkers and Molecular Diagnostic Tools for Rejection in Liver Transplantation: Light at the End of the Tunnel? J Clin Exp Hepatol 2023; 13:139-148. [PMID: 36647415 PMCID: PMC9840072 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2022.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Strategies to minimize immune-suppressive medications after liver transplantation are limited by allograft rejection. Biopsy of liver is the current standard of care in diagnosing rejection. However, it adds to physical and economic burden to the patient and has diagnostic limitations. In this review, we aim to highlight the different biomarkers to predict and diagnose acute rejection. We also aim to explore recent advances in molecular diagnostics to improve the diagnostic yield of liver biopsies.
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Key Words
- 3BMBs, third bifurcation mucosal endo-bronchial biopsies
- AMR, antibody mediated rejection
- APC, antigen presenting cells
- AR, Acute rejection
- ATCMR, acute T-cell mediated rejection
- ATG, Anti-thymoglobulin
- AUC, area under curve
- AUROC, area under receiver operating characteristic curve
- B-HOT, Banff Human Organ Transplant
- CNI, Calcineurin inhibitors
- DSA, Donor specific antibodies
- FDA, Food and drug administration
- FFPE, formalin fixed paraffin embedded preparation
- GLUT-4, glucose transport-4
- HLA, human leukocyte antigens
- HNMR, high nuclear magnetic resonance
- ILTS, International liver transplantation society
- LT, Liver transplantation
- Liver transplantation
- MDWG, molecular diagnostic work group
- MFI, mean fluorescence intensity
- MHC, major histo–compatibility complex
- MMDX
- MMDX, Molecular microscopic diagnostic system
- MMF, Mycophenolate Mofetil
- MToR, Mechanistic target of Rapamycin
- NPV, Negative predictive value
- PPV, Positive predictive value
- RATs, rejection associated transcripts
- TBB, trans-bronchial biopsies
- UNOS, United network for organ sharing and procurement
- biomarker
- dd cfDNA, donor-derived cell-free DNA
- donor-derived cell-free DNA
- immune-suppression
- mRNA, messenger RNA
- miRNA, micro-RNA
- micro-RNA
- molecular diagnosis
- nano-string
- rejection
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed El Sabagh
- Division of Gastroenterology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Islam B. Mohamed
- Division of Gastroenterology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Fuad Z. Aloor
- Division of Gastroenterology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ahmed Abdelwahab
- Division of Gastroenterology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Manal M. Hassan
- Department of Epidemiology, Division of Cancer Prevention and Population Sciences, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Prasun K. Jalal
- Division of Gastroenterology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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21
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Huang E, Mengel M, Clahsen-van Groningen MC, Jackson AM. Diagnostic Potential of Minimally Invasive Biomarkers: A Biopsy-centered Viewpoint From the Banff Minimally Invasive Diagnostics Working Group. Transplantation 2023; 107:45-52. [PMID: 36508645 PMCID: PMC9746335 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000004339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
With recent advances and commercial implementation of minimally invasive biomarkers in kidney transplantation, new strategies for the surveillance of allograft health are emerging. Blood and urine-based biomarkers can be used to detect the presence of rejection, but their applicability as diagnostic tests has not been studied. A Banff working group was recently formed to consider the potential of minimally invasive biomarkers for integration into the Banff classification for kidney allograft pathology. We review the existing data on donor-derived cell-free DNA, blood and urine transcriptomics, urinary protein chemokines, and next-generation diagnostics and conclude that the available data do not support their use as stand-alone diagnostic tests at this point. Future studies assessing their ability to distinguish complex phenotypes, differentiate T cell-mediated rejection from antibody-mediated rejection, and function as an adjunct to histology are needed to elevate these minimally invasive biomarkers from surveillance tests to diagnostic tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edmund Huang
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Michael Mengel
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Marian C. Clahsen-van Groningen
- Department of Pathology and Clinical Bioinformatics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Erasmus MC Transplant Institute, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Institute of Experimental and Systems Biology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
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22
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The Histological Spectrum and Clinical Significance of T Cell-mediated Rejection of Kidney Allografts. Transplantation 2022; 107:1042-1055. [PMID: 36584369 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000004438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
T cell-mediated rejection (TCMR) remains a significant cause of long-term kidney allograft loss, either indirectly through induction of donor-specific anti-HLA alloantibodies or directly through chronic active TCMR. Whether found by indication or protocol biopsy, Banff defined acute TCMR should be treated with antirejection therapy and maximized maintenance immunosuppression. Neither isolated interstitial inflammation in the absence of tubulitis nor isolated tubulitis in the absence of interstitial inflammation results in adverse outcomes, and neither requires antirejection treatment. RNA gene expression analysis of biopsy material may supplement conventional histology, especially in ambiguous cases. Lesser degrees of tubular and interstitial inflammation (Banff borderline) may portend adverse outcomes and should be treated when found on an indication biopsy. Borderline lesions on protocol biopsies may resolve spontaneously but require close follow-up if untreated. Following antirejection therapy of acute TCMR, surveillance protocol biopsies should be considered. Minimally invasive blood-borne assays (donor-derived cell-free DNA and gene expression profiling) are being increasingly studied as a means of following stable patients in lieu of biopsy. The clinical benefit and cost-effectiveness require confirmation in randomized controlled trials. Treatment of acute TCMR is not standardized but involves bolus corticosteroids with lymphocyte depleting antibodies for severe, refractory, or relapsing cases. Arteritis may be found with acute TCMR, active antibody-mediated rejection, or mixed rejections and should be treated accordingly. The optimal treatment ofchronic active TCMR is uncertain. Randomized controlled trials are necessary to optimally define therapy.
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23
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Johnson AC, Silva JAF, Kim SC, Larsen CP. Progress in kidney transplantation: The role for systems immunology. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:1070385. [PMID: 36590970 PMCID: PMC9800623 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.1070385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of systems biology represents an immense breakthrough in our ability to perform translational research and deliver personalized and precision medicine. A multidisciplinary approach in combination with use of novel techniques allows for the extraction and analysis of vast quantities of data even from the volume and source limited samples that can be obtained from human subjects. Continued advances in microfluidics, scalability and affordability of sequencing technologies, and development of data analysis tools have made the application of a multi-omics, or systems, approach more accessible for use outside of specialized centers. The study of alloimmune and protective immune responses after solid organ transplant offers innumerable opportunities for a multi-omics approach, however, transplant immunology labs are only just beginning to adopt the systems methodology. In this review, we focus on advances in biological techniques and how they are improving our understanding of the immune system and its interactions, highlighting potential applications in transplant immunology. First, we describe the techniques that are available, with emphasis on major advances that allow for increased scalability. Then, we review initial applications in the field of transplantation with a focus on topics that are nearing clinical integration. Finally, we examine major barriers to adapting these methods and discuss potential future developments.
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24
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Bissonnette MLZ, Riazy M, Cunningham AM, Gill JS. A Step toward Understanding the Story Behind the Pictures: Molecular Diagnostics and the Banff Classification of Renal Allograft Pathology. J Am Soc Nephrol 2022; 33:2131-2132. [PMID: 36171053 PMCID: PMC9731630 DOI: 10.1681/asn.2022070847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mei Lin Z. Bissonnette
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, St. Paul’s Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, St. Paul’s Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Maziar Riazy
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, St. Paul’s Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, St. Paul’s Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Amanda M. Cunningham
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, St. Paul’s Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - John S. Gill
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, St. Paul’s Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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25
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Randhawa P. The MMDx ® diagnostic system: A critical re-appraisal of its knowledge gaps and a call for rigorous validation studies. Clin Transplant 2022; 36:e14747. [PMID: 35678044 DOI: 10.1111/ctr.14747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Transcriptomics generates pathogenetic insights not obtainable by histology, but translation of these insights into diagnostic tests is not a trivial task. This opinion-piece critically appraises declarative MMDx statements, such as the infallibility of machine learning algorithms, measurements of gene expression with >99% precision, and "unambiguous reclassifications" of contentious biopsies such as those with borderline change, polyomavirus nephropathy, chronic active T-cell or mixed rejection, isolated intimal arteritis, and renal medullary pathology. It is shown that molecular diagnoses that do not agree with histology cannot be attributed primarily to pathology reading errors. Neither can all molecular calls derived from arbitrary binary thresholds be automatically accepted as the ground truth. Important other sources of discrepancies between clinico-pathologic and molecular calls include: (a) organ being studied, (b) disease definition, (c) clinical histologic, and gene expression heterogeneity within the same diagnostic label, (d) size and composition of comparator groups, (e) molecular noise, (f) variability in output of different machine learning algorithms, and (g) the nonavailability of a molecular classifier for chronic active TCMR. Carefully designed clinical trials are needed to determine which of the proposed indications of MMDx provide incremental value over existing standard of care protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parmjeet Randhawa
- Division of Transplantation Pathology, Department of Pathology, The Thomas E Starzl Transplantation Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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26
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Alam A, Van Zyl J, Paul Milligan G, Michelle McKean S, Patel R, Anne Hall S. Evolving the surveillance and workup of heart transplant rejection: A real-world analysis of the Molecular Microscope Diagnostic System. Am J Transplant 2022; 22:2443-2450. [PMID: 35514138 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.17087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The Molecular Microscope Diagnostic System (MMDx) analyzes RNA transcripts of transplanted heart tissue to differentiate among T cell-mediated rejection (TCMR), antibody-mediated rejection (AMR), injury, and healthy tissue. However, little is known about its performance in relation to other modalities in a real-world heart transplant population. We evaluated whether MMDx performs in agreement with other validated modalities. Two hundred and twenty-eight corresponding endomyocardial biopsies (EMBx) and MMDx specimens from 135 adult heart transplant patients were retrospectively reviewed with correlating donor-derived cell-free DNA (dd-cfDNA). Rejection was classified on EMBx in 29 specimens (TCMR ≥ 2R and/or AMR ≥ 1), on MMDx in 56 specimens, and in 74 values with dd-cfDNA ≥0.20%. Despite moderate agreement between EMBx and MMDx (84% agreement, Cohen's kappa, 0.48, p < .001), systematic differences were observed (McNemar's test, p < .001) where MMDx classified 32 of 37 discordant cases as rejection. MMDx and dd-cfDNA demonstrated slight agreement (72% agreement, Cohen's kappa, 0.39, p < .001); however, systematic differences were also apparent where MMDx classified 12 of 50 discordant specimens as rejection when dd-cfDNA was <0.20% (McNemar's test, p < .001). Our findings provide insight on the performance of MMDx relative to other modalities in a heart transplant cohort and have implications on the surveillance and workup of allograft rejection in heart transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit Alam
- Division of Advanced Heart Failure, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA.,Texas A&M University College of Medicine, Bryan, Texas, USA
| | - Johanna Van Zyl
- Division of Advanced Heart Failure, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA.,Texas A&M University College of Medicine, Bryan, Texas, USA
| | - Gregory Paul Milligan
- Division of Advanced Heart Failure, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Staci Michelle McKean
- Division of Advanced Heart Failure, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Raksha Patel
- Division of Advanced Heart Failure, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Shelley Anne Hall
- Division of Advanced Heart Failure, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA.,Texas A&M University College of Medicine, Bryan, Texas, USA
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27
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Halloran PF, Madill‐Thomsen KS, Pon S, Sikosana MLN, Böhmig GA, Bromberg J, Einecke G, Eskandary F, Gupta G, Hidalgo LG, Myslak M, Viklicky O, Perkowska‐Ptasinska A. Molecular diagnosis of ABMR with or without donor-specific antibody in kidney transplant biopsies: Differences in timing and intensity but similar mechanisms and outcomes. Am J Transplant 2022; 22:1976-1991. [PMID: 35575435 PMCID: PMC9540308 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.17092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
We studied the clinical, histologic, and molecular features distinguishing DSA-negative from DSA-positive molecularly defined antibody-mediated rejection (mABMR). We analyzed mABMR biopsies with available DSA assessments from the INTERCOMEX study: 148 DSA-negative versus 248 DSA-positive, compared with 864 no rejection (excluding TCMR and Mixed). DSA-positivity varied with mABMR stage: early-stage (EABMR) 56%; fully developed (FABMR) 70%; and late-stage (LABMR) 58%. DSA-negative patients with mABMR were usually sensitized, 60% being HLA antibody-positive. Compared with DSA-positive mABMR, DSA-negative mABMR was more often C4d-negative; earlier by 1.5 years (average 2.4 vs. 3.9 years); and had lower ABMR activity and earlier stage in molecular and histology features. However, the top ABMR-associated transcripts were identical in DSA-negative versus DSA-positive mABMR, for example, NK-associated (e.g., KLRD1 and GZMB) and IFNG-inducible (e.g., PLA1A). Genome-wide class comparison between DSA-negative and DSA-positive mABMR showed no significant differences in transcript expression except those related to lower intensity and earlier time of DSA-negative ABMR. Three-year graft loss in DSA-negative mABMR was the same as DSA-positive mABMR, even after adjusting for ABMR stage. Thus, compared with DSA-positive mABMR, DSA-negative mABMR is on average earlier, less active, and more often C4d-negative but has similar graft loss, and genome-wide analysis suggests that it involves the same mechanisms. SUMMARY SENTENCE: In 398 kidney transplant biopsies with molecular antibody-mediated rejection, the 150 DSA-negative cases are earlier, less intense, and mostly C4d-negative, but use identical molecular mechanisms and have the same risk of graft loss as the 248 DSA-positive cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip F. Halloran
- Alberta Transplant Applied Genomics CentreEdmontonAlbertaCanada,Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology and Transplant ImmunologyUniversity of AlbertaEdmontonAlbertaCanada
| | | | - Shane Pon
- Alberta Transplant Applied Genomics CentreEdmontonAlbertaCanada
| | | | - Georg A. Böhmig
- Division of Nephrology and Dialysis, Department of Medicine IIIMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria
| | | | - Gunilla Einecke
- Department of NephrologyHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany
| | - Farsad Eskandary
- Division of Nephrology and Dialysis, Department of Medicine IIIMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria
| | - Gaurav Gupta
- Division of NephrologyVirginia Commonwealth UniversityRichmondVirginiaUSA
| | | | - Marek Myslak
- Department of Clinical Interventions, Department of Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation SPWSZ HospitalPomeranian Medical UniversitySzczecinPoland
| | - Ondrej Viklicky
- Department of Nephrology and Transplant CenterInstitute for Clinical and Experimental MedicinePragueCzech Republic
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28
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Orozco G, Gupta M, Gedaly R, Marti F. Untangling the Knots of Regulatory T Cell Therapy in Solid Organ Transplantation. Front Immunol 2022; 13:883855. [PMID: 35720387 PMCID: PMC9198594 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.883855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous preclinical studies have provided solid evidence supporting adoptive transfer of regulatory T cells (Tregs) to induce organ tolerance. As a result, there are 7 currently active Treg cell-based clinical trials in solid organ transplantation worldwide, all of which are early phase I or phase I/II trials. Although the results of these trials are optimistic and support both safety and feasibility, many experimental and clinical unanswered questions are slowing the progression of this new therapeutic alternative. In this review, we bring to the forefront the major challenges that Treg cell transplant investigators are currently facing, including the phenotypic and functional diversity of Treg cells, lineage stability, non-standardized ex vivo Treg cell manufacturing process, adequacy of administration route, inability of monitoring and tracking infused cells, and lack of biomarkers or validated surrogate endpoints of efficacy in clinical trials. With this plethora of interrogation marks, we are at a challenging and exciting crossroad where properly addressing these questions will determine the successful implementation of Treg cell-based immunotherapy in clinical transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Orozco
- Department of Surgery - Transplant Division, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Meera Gupta
- Department of Surgery - Transplant Division, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States.,Alliance Research Initiative [Treg cells to Induce Liver Tolerance (TILT) Alliance], University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Roberto Gedaly
- Department of Surgery - Transplant Division, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States.,Alliance Research Initiative [Treg cells to Induce Liver Tolerance (TILT) Alliance], University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, United States.,Lucille Parker Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Francesc Marti
- Department of Surgery - Transplant Division, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States.,Alliance Research Initiative [Treg cells to Induce Liver Tolerance (TILT) Alliance], University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, United States.,Lucille Parker Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, United States
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29
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McCloskey C, Zubrycki M, Lawrence C. The Molecular Microscope Diagnostic System (MMDx) interpretation of solid organ allograft biopsies: Restoring the perspective. Clin Transplant 2022; 36:e14711. [PMID: 35668041 DOI: 10.1111/ctr.14711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Chris McCloskey
- Transplant Diagnostics Division, Thermo Fisher Scientific, West Hills, California, USA
| | - Michelle Zubrycki
- Transplant Diagnostics Division, Thermo Fisher Scientific, West Hills, California, USA
| | - Christopher Lawrence
- Transplant Diagnostics Division, Thermo Fisher Scientific, West Hills, California, USA
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30
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Sazpinar O, Gaspert A, Sidler D, Rechsteiner M, Mueller TF. Histologic and Molecular Patterns in Responders and Non-responders With Chronic-Active Antibody-Mediated Rejection in Kidney Transplants. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:820085. [PMID: 35573002 PMCID: PMC9099145 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.820085] [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: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
IntroductionThere is no proven therapy for chronic-active antibody-mediated rejection (caABMR), the major cause of late kidney allograft failure. Histological and molecular patterns associated with possible therapy responsiveness are not known.MethodsBased on rigorous selection criteria this single center, retrospective study identified 16 out of 1027 consecutive kidney transplant biopsies taken between 2008 and 2016 with pure, unquestionable caABMR, without other pathologic features. The change in estimated GFR pre- and post-biopsy/treatment were utilized to differentiate subjects into responders and non-responders. Gene sets reflecting active immune processes of caABMR were defined a priori, including endothelial, inflammatory, cellular, interferon gamma (IFNg) and calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) related-genes based on the literature. Transcript measurements were performed in RNA extracted from stored, formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples using NanoString™ technology. Histology and gene expression patterns of responders and non-responders were compared.ResultsA reductionist approach applying very tight criteria to identify caABMR and treatment response excluded the vast majority of clinical ABMR cases. Only 16 out of 139 cases with a written diagnosis of chronic rejection fulfilled the caABMR criteria. Histological associations with therapy response included a lower peritubular capillaritis score (p = 0.028) along with less glomerulitis. In contrast, no single gene discriminated responders from non-responders. Activated genes associated with NK cells and endothelial cells suggested lack of treatment response.ConclusionIn caABMR active microvascular injury, in particular peritubular capillaritis, differentiates treatment responders from non-responders. Transcriptome changes in NK cell and endothelial cell associated genes may further help to identify treatment response. Future prospective studies will be needed which include more subjects, who receive standardized treatment protocols to identify biomarkers for treatment response.Clinical Trial Registration[ClinicalTrials.gov], identifier [NCT03430414].
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Affiliation(s)
- Onur Sazpinar
- Clinic of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University Hospital Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ariana Gaspert
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Pathology, University Hospital Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Daniel Sidler
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, University Hospital Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Markus Rechsteiner
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Pathology, University Hospital Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Thomas F. Mueller
- Clinic of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University Hospital Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
- *Correspondence: Thomas F. Mueller,
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31
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Halloran PF, Reeve J, Madill-Thomsen KS, Demko Z, Prewett A, Billings P. The Trifecta Study: Comparing Plasma Levels of Donor-derived Cell-Free DNA with the Molecular Phenotype of Kidney Transplant Biopsies. J Am Soc Nephrol 2022; 33:387-400. [PMID: 35058354 PMCID: PMC8819982 DOI: 10.1681/asn.2021091191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The relationship between the donor-derived cell-free DNA fraction (dd-cfDNA[%]) in plasma in kidney transplant recipients at time of indication biopsy and gene expression in the biopsied allograft has not been defined. METHODS In the prospective, multicenter Trifecta study, we collected tissue from 300 biopsies from 289 kidney transplant recipients to compare genome-wide gene expression in biopsies with dd-cfDNA(%) in corresponding plasma samples drawn just before biopsy. Rejection was assessed with the microarray-based Molecular Microscope Diagnostic System using automatically assigned rejection archetypes and molecular report sign-outs, and histology assessments that followed Banff guidelines. RESULTS The median time of biopsy post-transplantation was 455 days (5 days to 32 years), with a case mix similar to that of previous studies: 180 (60%) no rejection, 89 (30%) antibody-mediated rejection (ABMR), and 31 (10%) T cell-mediated rejection (TCMR) and mixed. In genome-wide mRNA measurements, all 20 top probe sets correlating with dd-cfDNA(%) were previously annotated for association with ABMR and all types of rejection, either natural killer (NK) cell-expressed (e.g., GNLY, CCL4, TRDC, and S1PR5) or IFN-γ-inducible (e.g., PLA1A, IDO1, CXCL11, and WARS). Among gene set and classifier scores, dd-cfDNA(%) correlated very strongly with ABMR and all types of rejection, reasonably strongly with active TCMR, and weakly with inactive TCMR, kidney injury, and atrophy fibrosis. Active ABMR, mixed, and active TCMR had the highest dd-cfDNA(%), whereas dd-cfDNA(%) was lower in late-stage ABMR and less-active TCMR. By multivariate random forests and logistic regression, molecular rejection variables predicted dd-cfDNA(%) better than histologic variables. CONCLUSIONS The dd-cfDNA(%) at time of indication biopsy strongly correlates with active molecular rejection and has the potential to reduce unnecessary biopsies. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT04239703.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip F. Halloran
- Alberta Transplant Applied Genomics Center, Edmonton, Canada,Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada,Transcriptome Sciences Inc., Edmonton, Canada
| | - Jeff Reeve
- Alberta Transplant Applied Genomics Center, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Katelynn S. Madill-Thomsen
- Alberta Transplant Applied Genomics Center, Edmonton, Canada,Transcriptome Sciences Inc., Edmonton, Canada
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32
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Fusfeld L, Menon S, Gupta G, Lawrence C, Masud SF, Goss TF. US payer budget impact of a microarray assay with machine learning to evaluate kidney transplant rejection in for-cause biopsies. J Med Econ 2022; 25:515-523. [PMID: 35345966 DOI: 10.1080/13696998.2022.2059221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
AIM This study evaluates the economic impact to US commercial payers of MMDx-Kidney used in conjunction with histologic evaluation of for-cause kidney transplant biopsies. MATERIALS AND METHODS An Excel-based model was developed to assess the cost impact of histology plus MMDx-Kidney versus histology alone for the evaluation of potential rejection in kidney transplant patients who receive a for-cause biopsy. Different model time periods were assessed, ranging from 1 to 5 years post-biopsy. A targeted literature review was used to identify parameter estimates, validated by two external clinicians with expertise in managing kidney transplant rejection. A sensitivity analysis was conducted to evaluate the relative impact of key clinical and cost parameters. In particular, the model identified the magnitude of MMDx-Kidney's impact on graft failure from rejection that would be required for MMDx-Kidney to be cost-neutral. RESULTS By more accurately characterizing rejection, MMDx-Kidney is estimated to increase antirejection treatment costs by $1,126 per test. Nevertheless, a break-even analysis shows that the costs of MMDx-Kidney and anti-rejection medication, as well as the costs associated with an increase in the number of patients with functioning transplants, may be offset by reductions in costs associated with graft failure (i.e. costs of hospitalizations, dialysis, and repeat transplants) over 5 years, assuming MMDx-Kidney reduces annual graft failure from rejection by at least 5%. For the base case, with a 25% relative reduction in annual rate of graft failures from rejection, MMDx-Kidney increases overall costs incurred in the first year of the model but starts generating savings by the second year of the model. CONCLUSIONS Compared with histologic evaluation of for-cause kidney transplant biopsies alone, the use of MMDx-Kidney in conjunction with histologic evaluation improves the diagnoses of graft dysfunction and may have the potential to generate overall savings from reductions in rejection-related graft failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Fusfeld
- Boston Healthcare Associates, Inc. (now a Veranex company), Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sreeranjani Menon
- Boston Healthcare Associates, Inc. (now a Veranex company), Boston, MA, USA
| | - Gaurav Gupta
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | | | - Salwa F Masud
- Boston Healthcare Associates, Inc. (now a Veranex company), Boston, MA, USA
| | - Thomas F Goss
- Boston Healthcare Associates, Inc. (now a Veranex company), Boston, MA, USA
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Deville KA, Seifert ME. Biomarkers of alloimmune events in pediatric kidney transplantation. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:1087841. [PMID: 36741087 PMCID: PMC9895094 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.1087841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Alloimmune events such as the development of de novo donor-specific antibody (dnDSA), T cell-mediated rejection (TCMR), and antibody-mediated rejection (ABMR) are the primary contributors to kidney transplant failure in children. For decades, a creatinine-based estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) has been the non-invasive gold standard biomarker for detecting clinically significant alloimmune events, but it suffers from low sensitivity and specificity, especially in smaller children and older allografts. Many clinically "stable" children (based on creatinine) will have alloimmune events known as "subclinical acute rejection" (based on biopsy) that merely reflect the inadequacy of creatinine-based estimates for alloimmune injury rather than a distinct phenotype from clinical rejection with allograft dysfunction. The poor biomarker performance of creatinine leads to many unnecessary surveillance and for-cause biopsies that could be avoided by integrating non-invasive biomarkers with superior sensitivity and specificity into current clinical paradigms. In this review article, we will present and appraise the current state-of-the-art in monitoring for alloimmune events in pediatric kidney transplantation. We will first discuss the current clinical standards for assessing the presence of alloimmune injury and predicting long-term outcomes. We will review principles of biomarker medicine and the application of comprehensive metrics to assess the performance of a given biomarker against the current gold standard. We will then highlight novel blood- and urine-based biomarkers (with special emphasis on pediatric biomarker studies) that have shown superior diagnostic and prognostic performance to the current clinical standards including creatinine-based eGFR. Finally, we will review some of the barriers to translating this research and implementing emerging biomarkers into common clinical practice, and present a transformative approach to using multiple biomarker platforms at different times to optimize the detection and management of critical alloimmune events in pediatric kidney transplant recipients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle A Deville
- Division of Pediatric Nephrology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Michael E Seifert
- Division of Pediatric Nephrology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL, United States
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Novotný M, Kment M, Viklický O. Adipose tissue macrophages and atherogenesis – a synergy with cholesterolaemia. Physiol Res 2021. [DOI: 10.33549//physiolres.934801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Antibody-mediated rejection (ABMR) is a major obstacle to the long-term success in kidney transplantation. Diagnosis of ABMR is determined according to the internationally recognized Banff criteria. However, a significant proportion of patients does not meet all the defined criteria, and the outcome of such cases remains poorly understood. The histology of ABMR frequently lacks sensitivity and specificity. More importantly, mixed forms of ABMR and T cell-mediated rejection as well as findings of nonspecific injury are common in clinical settings. Donor-specific anti-HLA antibodies (DSA) are detectable only in half of the ABMR cases by histology. Prognostic role of non-HLA antibodies against various endothelial proteins has been discussed. Antibody independent NK cell activation reflecting killer-cells’ inhibitory receptor incompatibility is suggested in microvascular inflammation in DSA negative patients. Molecular assessment of ABMR has been prioritized to overcome high interobserver variability and improve diagnostics in mixed forms of rejections and in DSA negative cases. Finally, donor-derived cell-free DNA detected in a recipient’s peripheral blood sample has been proposed as a noninvasive marker for diagnosis of graft rejection, and thus might serve as a liquid biopsy in the near future. Despite all achievements, diagnosing ABMR in kidney allografts remains to be a challenge in a significant number of cases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - O Viklický
- Department of Nephrology, Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Prague, Czech Republic.
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Novotny M, Hruba P, Kment M, Voska L, Kabrtova K, Slavcev A, Viklicky O. Intimal Arteritis and Microvascular Inflammation Are Associated With Inferior Kidney Graft Outcome, Regardless of Donor-Specific Antibodies. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:781206. [PMID: 34957155 PMCID: PMC8692297 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.781206] [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: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The prognostic role of intimal arteritis of kidney allografts in donor-specific antibody negative (DSA–) antibody-mediated rejection (ABMR) remains unclear. Methods: Seventy-two out of 881 patients who had undergone kidney transplantation from 2014 to 2017 exhibited intimal arteritis in biopsies performed during the first 12 months. In 26 DSA negative cases, the intimal arteritis was accompanied by tubulointerstitial inflammation as part of T cell-mediated vascular rejection (TCMRV, N = 26); intimal arteritis along with microvascular inflammation occurred in 29 DSA negative (ABMRV/DSA–) and 19 DSA positive cases (ABMRV, DSA+, N = 17). In 60 (83%) patients with intimal arteritis, the surveillance biopsies after antirejection therapy were performed. Hundred and two patients with non-vascular ABMR with DSA (ABMR/DSA+, N = 55) and without DSA (ABMR/DSA–, N = 47) served as controls. Time to transplant glomerulopathy (TG) and graft failure were the study endpoints. Results: Transplant glomerulopathy -free survival at 36 months was 100% in TCMRV, 85% in ABMR/DSA–, 65% in ABMRV/DSA-, 54% in ABMR/DSA+ and 31% in ABMRV/DSA+ (log rank p < 0.001). Death-censored graft survival at 36 months was 98% in ABMR/DSA-, 96% in TCMRV, 86% in ABMRV/DSA–, 79% in ABMR/DSA+, and 64% in ABMRV/DSA+ group (log rank p = 0.001). In surveillance biopsies, the resolution of rejection was found in 19 (90%) TCMRV, 14 (58%) ABMRV/DSA–, and only 4 (27%) ABMRV/DSA+ patients (p = 0.006). In the multivariable model, intimal arteritis as part of ABMR represented a significant risk for TG development (HR 2.1, 95% CI 1.2–3.8; p = 0.012) regardless of DSA status but not for graft failure at 36 months. Conclusions: Intimal arteritis as part of ABMR represented a risk for early development of TG regardless of the presence or absence of DSA. Intimal arteritis in DSA positive ABMR represented the high-risk phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marek Novotny
- Department of Nephrology, Transplant Centre, Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Prague, Czechia
- Institute of Physiology, First Medical Faculty, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Petra Hruba
- Transplant Laboratory, Transplant Centre, Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Prague, Czechia
| | - Martin Kment
- Department of Clinical and Transplant Pathology, Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Prague, Czechia
| | - Ludek Voska
- Department of Clinical and Transplant Pathology, Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Prague, Czechia
| | - Katerina Kabrtova
- Department of Immunogenetics, Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Prague, Czechia
| | - Antonij Slavcev
- Department of Immunogenetics, Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Prague, Czechia
| | - Ondrej Viklicky
- Department of Nephrology, Transplant Centre, Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Prague, Czechia
- Institute of Physiology, First Medical Faculty, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
- Transplant Laboratory, Transplant Centre, Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Prague, Czechia
- *Correspondence: Ondrej Viklicky
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Loupy A, Mengel M, Haas M. 30 years of the International Banff Classification for Allograft Pathology: The Past, Present and Future of Kidney Transplant Diagnostics. Kidney Int 2021; 101:678-691. [DOI: 10.1016/j.kint.2021.11.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Halloran PF, Madill-Thomsen KS, Böhmig GA, Myslak M, Gupta G, Kumar D, Viklicky O, Perkowska-Ptasinska A, Famulski KS. A 2-fold Approach to Polyoma Virus (BK) Nephropathy in Kidney Transplants: Distinguishing Direct Virus Effects From Cognate T Cell-mediated Inflammation. Transplantation 2021; 105:2374-2384. [PMID: 34310102 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000003884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND BK nephropathy (BKN) in kidney transplants diagnosed by histology is challenging because it involves damage from both virus activity and cognate T cell-mediated inflammation, directed against alloantigens (rejection) or viral antigens. The present study of indication biopsies from the Integrated Diagnostic System in the International Collaborative Microarray Study Extension study measured major capsid viral protein 2 (VP2) mRNA to assess virus activity and a T cell-mediated rejection (TCMR) classifier to assess cognate T cell-mediated inflammation. METHODS Biopsies were assessed by local standard-of-care histology and by genome-wide microarrays and Molecular Microscope Diagnostic System (MMDx) algorithms to detect rejection and injury. In a subset of 102 biopsies (50 BKN and 52 BKN-negative biopsies with various abnormalities), we measured VP2 transcripts by real-time polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS BKN was diagnosed in 55 of 1679 biopsies; 30 had cognate T cell-mediated activity assessed by by MMDx and TCMR lesions, but only 3 of 30 were histologically diagnosed as TCMR. We developed a BKN probability classifier that predicted histologic BKN (area under the curve = 0.82). Virus activity (VP2 expression) was highly selective for BKN (area under the curve = 0.94) and correlated with acute injury, atrophy-fibrosis, macrophage activation, and the BKN classifier, but not with the TCMR classifier. BKN with molecular TCMR had more tubulitis and inflammation than BKN without molecular TCMR. In 5 BKN cases with second biopsies, VP2 mRNA decreased in second biopsies, whereas in 4 of 5 TCMR classifiers, scores increased. Genes and pathways associated with BKN and VP2 mRNA were similar, reflecting injury, inflammation, and macrophage activation but none was selective for BKN. CONCLUSIONS Risk-benefit decisions in BKN may be assisted by quantitative assessment of the 2 major pathologic processes, virus activity and cognate T cell-mediated inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip F Halloran
- Alberta Transplant Applied Genomics Centre, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology and Transplant Immunology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | | | - Georg A Böhmig
- Division of Nephrology and Dialysis, Department of Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Marek Myslak
- Department of Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation, SPWSZ Hospital in Szczecin, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Gaurav Gupta
- Division of Nephrology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA
| | - Dhiren Kumar
- Division of Nephrology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA
| | - Ondrej Viklicky
- Department of Nephrology and Transplant Center, Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Prague, Czech Republic
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Filippone EJ, Gulati R, Farber JL. Noninvasive Assessment of the Alloimmune Response in Kidney Transplantation. Adv Chronic Kidney Dis 2021; 28:548-560. [PMID: 35367023 DOI: 10.1053/j.ackd.2021.08.002] [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: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Transplantation remains the optimal mode of kidney replacement therapy, but unfortunately long-term graft survival after 1 year remains suboptimal. The main mechanism of chronic allograft injury is alloimmune, and current clinical monitoring of kidney transplants includes measuring serum creatinine, proteinuria, and immunosuppressive drug levels. The most important biomarker routinely monitored is human leukocyte antigen (HLA) donor-specific antibodies (DSAs) with the frequency based on underlying immunologic risk. HLA-DSA should be measured if there is graft dysfunction, immunosuppression minimization, or nonadherence. Antibody strength is semiquantitatively estimated as mean fluorescence intensity, with titration studies for equivocal cases and for following response to treatment. Determination of in vitro C1q or C3d positivity or HLA-DSA IgG subclass analysis remains of uncertain significance, but we do not recommend these for routine use. Current evidence does not support routine monitoring of non-HLA antibodies except anti-angiotensin II type 1 receptor antibodies when the phenotype is appropriate. The monitoring of both donor-derived cell-free DNA in blood or gene expression profiling of serum and/or urine may detect subclinical rejection, although mainly as a supplement and not as a replacement for biopsy. The optimal frequency and cost-effectiveness of using these noninvasive assays remain to be determined. We review the available literature and make recommendations.
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Caveolin-1 in Kidney Chronic Antibody-Mediated Rejection: An Integrated Immunohistochemical and Transcriptomic Analysis Based on the Banff Human Organ Transplant (B-HOT) Gene Panel. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9101318. [PMID: 34680435 PMCID: PMC8533527 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9101318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Caveolin-1 overexpression has previously been reported as a marker of endothelial injury in kidney chronic antibody-mediated rejection (c-ABMR), but conclusive evidence supporting its use for daily diagnostic practice is missing. This study aims to evaluate if Caveolin-1 can be considered an immunohistochemical surrogate marker of c-ABMR. Caveolin-1 expression was analyzed in a selected series of 22 c-ABMR samples and 11 controls. Caveolin-1 immunohistochemistry proved positive in peritubular and glomerular capillaries of c-ABMR specimens, irrespective of C4d status whereas all controls were negative. Multiplex gene expression profiling in c-ABMR cases confirmed Caveolin-1 overexpression and identified additional genes (n = 220) and pathways, including MHC Class II antigen presentation and Type II interferon signaling. No differences in terms of gene expression (including Caveolin-1 gene) were observed according to C4d status. Conversely, immune cell signatures showed a NK-cell prevalence in C4d-negative samples compared with a B-cell predominance in C4d-positive cases, a finding confirmed by immunohistochemical assessment. Finally, differentially expressed genes were observed between c-ABMR and controls in pathways associated with Caveolin-1 functions (angiogenesis, cell metabolism and cell–ECM interaction). Based on our findings, Caveolin-1 resulted as a key player in c-ABMR, supporting its role as a marker of this condition irrespective of C4d status.
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Pure T-cell mediated rejection following kidney transplant according to response to treatment. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0256898. [PMID: 34478461 PMCID: PMC8415619 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0256898] [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: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The focus of studies on kidney transplantation (KT) has largely shifted from T-cell mediated rejection (TCMR) to antibody-mediated rejection (ABMR). However, there are still cases of pure acute TCMR in histological reports, even after a long time following transplant. We thus evaluated the impact of pure TCMR on graft survival (GS) according to treatment response. We also performed molecular diagnosis using a molecular microscope diagnostic system on a separate group of 23 patients. A total of 63 patients were divided into non-responders (N = 22) and responders (N = 44). Non-response to rejection treatment was significantly associated with the following factors: glomerular filtration rate (GFR) at biopsy, ΔGFR, TCMR within one year, t score, and IF/TA score. We also found that non-responder vs. responder (OR = 3.31; P = 0.036) and lower GFR at biopsy (OR = 0.56; P = 0.026) were independent risk factors of graft failure. The responders had a significantly superior overall GS rate compared with the non-responders (P = 0.004). Molecular assessment showed a good correlation with histologic diagnosis in ABMR, but not in TCMR. Solitary TCMR was a significant risk factor of graft failure in patients who did not respond to rejection treatment.
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Mayer KA, Doberer K, Tillgren A, Viard T, Haindl S, Krivanec S, Reindl-Schwaighofer R, Eder M, Eskandary F, Casas S, Wahrmann M, Regele H, Böhmig GA. Diagnostic value of donor-derived cell-free DNA to predict antibody-mediated rejection in donor-specific antibody-positive renal allograft recipients. Transpl Int 2021; 34:1689-1702. [PMID: 34448270 PMCID: PMC8456909 DOI: 10.1111/tri.13970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Circulating donor‐specific antibodies (DSA) do not necessarily indicate antibody‐mediated rejection (ABMR). Here, we evaluated the diagnostic value of donor‐derived cell‐free DNA (dd‐cfDNA) as an add‐on to DSA detection. The study included two independent cohorts of DSA+ kidney allograft recipients, 45 subclinical cases identified by cross‐sectional antibody screening (cohort 1), and 30 recipients subjected to indication biopsies (cohort 2). About 50% of the DSA+ recipients had ABMR and displayed higher dd‐cfDNA levels than DSA+ABMR− recipients (cohort 1: 1.90% [median; IQR: 0.78–3.90%] vs. 0.52% [0.35–0.72%]; P < 0.001); (cohort 2: 1.20% [0.82–2.50%] vs. 0.59% [0.28–2.05%]; P = 0.086). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis revealed an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.89 and 0.69 for dd‐cfDNA, and 0.88 and 0.77 for DSA mean fluorescence intensity (MFI), respectively. In combined models, adding dd‐cfDNA to DSA‐MFI or vice versa significantly improved the diagnostic accuracy. Limited diagnostic performance of dd‐cfDNA in cohort 2 was related to the frequent finding of other types of graft injury among ABMR− recipients, like T cell‐mediated rejection or glomerulonephritis. For dd‐cfDNA in relation to injury of any cause an AUC of 0.97 was calculated. Monitoring of dd‐cfDNA in DSA+ patients may be a useful tool to detect ABMR and other types of injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina A Mayer
- Division of Nephrology and Dialysis, Department of Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Konstantin Doberer
- Division of Nephrology and Dialysis, Department of Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | | | - Susanne Haindl
- Division of Nephrology and Dialysis, Department of Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sebastian Krivanec
- Division of Nephrology and Dialysis, Department of Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Roman Reindl-Schwaighofer
- Division of Nephrology and Dialysis, Department of Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael Eder
- Division of Nephrology and Dialysis, Department of Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Farsad Eskandary
- Division of Nephrology and Dialysis, Department of Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Silvia Casas
- CareDx Inc., Brisbane, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Markus Wahrmann
- Division of Nephrology and Dialysis, Department of Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Heinz Regele
- Department of Pathology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Georg A Böhmig
- Division of Nephrology and Dialysis, Department of Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Halloran PF, Madill-Thomsen K, Aliabadi-Zuckermann AZ, Cadeiras M, Crespo-Leiro MG, Depasquale EC, Deng M, Gökler J, Kim DH, Kobashigawa J, Macdonald P, Potena L, Shah K, Stehlik J, Zuckermann A. Many heart transplant biopsies currently diagnosed as no rejection have mild molecular antibody-mediated rejection-related changes. J Heart Lung Transplant 2021; 41:334-344. [PMID: 34548198 DOI: 10.1016/j.healun.2021.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Molecular Microscope (MMDx) system classifies heart transplant endomyocardial biopsies as No-rejection (NR), Early-injury, T cell-mediated (TCMR), antibody-mediated (ABMR), mixed, and possible rejection (possible TCMR, possible ABMR). Rejection-like gene expression patterns in NR biopsies have not been described. We extended the MMDx methodology, using a larger data set, to define a new "Minor" category characterized by low-level inflammation in non-rejecting biopsies. METHODS Using MMDx criteria from a previous study, molecular rejection was assessed in 1,320 biopsies (645 patients) using microarray expression of rejection-associated transcripts (RATs). Of these biopsies, 819 were NR. A new archetypal analysis model in the 1,320 data set split the NRs into NR-Normal (N = 462) and NR-Minor (N = 359). RESULTS Compared to NR-Normal, NR-Minor were more often histologic TCMR1R, with a higher prevalence of donor-specific antibody (DSA). DSA positivity increased in a gradient: NR-Normal 24%; NR-Minor 34%; possible ABMR 42%; ABMR 66%. The top 20 transcripts distinguishing NR-Minor from NR-Normal were all ABMR-related and/or IFNG-inducible, and also exhibited a gradient of increasing expression from NR-Normal through ABMR. In random forest analysis, TCMR and Early-injury were associated with reduced LVEF and increased graft loss, but NR-Minor and ABMR scores were not. Surprisingly, hearts with MMDx ABMR showed comparatively little graft loss. CONCLUSIONS Many heart transplants currently diagnosed as NR by histologic or molecular assessment have minor increases in ABMR-related and IFNG-inducible transcripts, associated with DSA positivity and mild histologic inflammation. These results suggest that low-level ABMR-related molecular stress may be operating in many more hearts than previously estimated. (ClinicalTrials.gov #NCT02670408).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Mario Deng
- Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | | | - Daniel H Kim
- University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | | | - Peter Macdonald
- The Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Keyur Shah
- Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
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Cowhig C, Scott J, Dorman AM, Little MA, de Freitas DG. Acute renal allograft failure in a patient with vasculitis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 60:iii43-iii46. [PMID: 34137875 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keab045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Cliona Cowhig
- Beaumont Hospital Kidney Centre, Trinity Translational Medicine Institute, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jennifer Scott
- Trinity Health Kidney Centre, Trinity Translational Medicine Institute, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Anthony M Dorman
- Beaumont Hospital Kidney Centre, Trinity Translational Medicine Institute, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mark A Little
- Beaumont Hospital Kidney Centre, Trinity Translational Medicine Institute, Dublin, Ireland.,Trinity Health Kidney Centre, Trinity Translational Medicine Institute, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Declan G de Freitas
- Beaumont Hospital Kidney Centre, Trinity Translational Medicine Institute, Dublin, Ireland
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44
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Affiliation(s)
- Sundaram Hariharan
- From the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh (S.H.); Hennepin Healthcare, the University of Minnesota, and the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients - all in Minneapolis (A.K.I.); and the University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles (G.D.)
| | - Ajay K Israni
- From the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh (S.H.); Hennepin Healthcare, the University of Minnesota, and the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients - all in Minneapolis (A.K.I.); and the University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles (G.D.)
| | - Gabriel Danovitch
- From the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh (S.H.); Hennepin Healthcare, the University of Minnesota, and the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients - all in Minneapolis (A.K.I.); and the University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles (G.D.)
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45
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Donor-derived Cell-free DNA in Solid-organ Transplant Diagnostics: Indications, Limitations, and Future Directions. Transplantation 2021; 105:1203-1211. [PMID: 33534526 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000003651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The last few years have seen an explosion in clinical research focusing on the use of donor-derived cell-free DNA (dd-cfDNA) in solid-organ transplants (SOT). Although most of the literature published so far focuses on kidney transplants, there are several recent as well as ongoing research studies on heart, lung, pancreas, and liver transplants. Though initially studied as a noninvasive means of identifying subclinical or acute rejection in SOT, it is rapidly becoming clear that instead of being a specific marker for allograft rejection, dd-cfDNA is more appropriately described as a marker of severe injury, although the most common cause of this injury is allograft rejection. Multiple studies in kidney transplants have shown that although sensitivity for the diagnosis of antibody-mediated rejection is excellent, it is less so for T-cell-mediated rejection. It is possible that combining dd-cfDNA with other novel urine- or blood-based biomarkers may increase the sensitivity for the diagnosis of rejection. Irrespective of the cause, though, elevated dd-cfDNA seems to portend adverse allograft prognosis and formation of de novo donor-specific antibody. Although current data do not lend themselves to a clear conclusion, ongoing studies may reveal the utility of serial surveillance for the management of SOT as following levels of dd-cfDNA over time may provide windows of opportunity to intervene early and before irreversible allograft injury. Finally, cost-effectiveness studies will be needed to guide the ideal incorporation of dd-cfDNA into routine clinical practice.
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The Problem of Subclinical Antibody-mediated Rejection in Kidney Transplantation. Transplantation 2021; 105:1176-1187. [PMID: 33196628 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000003543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Defined as histologic evidence of rejection on a protocol biopsy in the absence of kidney dysfunction, subclinical rejection has garnered attention since the 1990s. The major focus of much of this research, however, has been subclinical T cell-mediated rejection (TCMR). Herein, we review the literature on subclinical antibody-mediated rejection (AMR), which may occur with either preexisting donor-specific antibodies (DSA) or upon the development of de novo DSA (dnDSA). In both situations, subsequent kidney function and graft survival are compromised. Thus, we recommend protocol biopsy routinely within the first year with preexisting DSA and at the initial detection of dnDSA. In those with positive biopsies, baseline immunosuppression should be maximized, any associated TCMR treated, and adherence stressed, but it remains uncertain if antibody-reduction treatment should be initiated. Less invasive testing of blood for donor DNA or gene profiling may have a role in follow-up of those with negative initial biopsies. If a protocol biopsy is positive in the absence of detectable HLA-DSA, it also remains to be determined whether non-HLA-DSA should be screened for either in particular or on a genome-wide basis and how these patients should be treated. Randomized controlled trials are clearly needed.
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Alam A, Halloran PF, Mathew C, Fathima S, Ghazi A, Kale P, Hall SA. Bradycardia in Recent Heart Transplant: Will the Microscope Illuminate the True Answer? CME. Methodist Debakey Cardiovasc J 2021; 17:e14-e17. [PMID: 34295452 PMCID: PMC8287873 DOI: 10.14797/prem9909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Transplant recipients are at risk of developing rejection that may cause
significant morbidity and mortality following transplantation The clinical
presentation of rejection may be atypical, leading to difficulties in diagnosis
and management especially in cases with a nondiagnostic biopsy specimen. The
emergence of artificial intelligence may aid in clinical decision making when
traditional techniques are inconclusive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit Alam
- BAYLOR UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER, DALLAS, TEXAS.,COLLEGE OF MEDICINE, TEXAS A&M HEALTH SCIENCE CENTER
| | | | - Christo Mathew
- BAYLOR UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER, DALLAS, TEXAS.,COLLEGE OF MEDICINE, TEXAS A&M HEALTH SCIENCE CENTER
| | | | | | - Parag Kale
- BAYLOR UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER, DALLAS, TEXAS.,COLLEGE OF MEDICINE, TEXAS A&M HEALTH SCIENCE CENTER
| | - Shelley A Hall
- BAYLOR UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER, DALLAS, TEXAS.,COLLEGE OF MEDICINE, TEXAS A&M HEALTH SCIENCE CENTER
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Correlation of Donor-Derived Cell-free DNA with Histology and Molecular Diagnoses of Kidney Transplant Biopsies. Transplantation 2021; 106:1061-1070. [PMID: 34075006 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000003838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Circulating donor-derived cell free DNA (cfDNA), a minimally invasive diagnostic tool for kidney transplant rejection, was validated using traditional histology. The Molecular Microscope (MMDx) tissue gene expression platform may provide increased precision to traditional histology. METHODS In this single-center prospective study of 208 biopsies (median=5.8 months) post-transplant, we report on the calibration of cfDNA with simultaneous biopsy assessments using MMDx and histology by Area under the curve (AUC) analyses for optimal criterion, as well as for, previously published cfDNA cut-offs ≤0.21% to 'rule-out' rejection and ≥1% to 'rule-in' rejection. RESULTS There were significant discrepancies between histology and MMDx, with MMDx identifying more antibody-mediated rejection (65; 31%) than histology (43; 21%); the opposite was true for T-cell mediated rejection [TCMR; histology: 27 (13%) vs MMDx: 13 (6%)]. Most of the TCMR discrepancies were seen for histologic borderline/1A TCMR. AUC Curves for cfDNA and prediction of rejection were slightly better with MMDx (AUC=0.80; 95%CI: 0.74-0.86) vs. histology (AUC=0.75; 95%CI: 0.69-0.81). A cfDNA≤0.21% had similar sensitivity (~91%) to 'rule-out' rejection by histology and MMDx. Specificity was slightly higher with MMDx (92%) compared with histology (85%) to 'rule-in' rejection using cfDNA criterion≥1%. Strong positive quantitative correlations were observed between cfDNA scores and molecular acute kidney injury (AKI) for both 'rejection' and 'nonrejection' biopsies. CONCLUSIONS Molecular diagnostics using tissue gene expression and blood-based donor-derived cell-free DNA may add precision to some cases of traditional histology. The positive correlation of cfDNA with molecular AKI suggests a dose-dependent association with tissue injury irrespective of rejection characteristics.
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Lai X, Zheng X, Mathew JM, Gallon L, Leventhal JR, Zhang ZJ. Tackling Chronic Kidney Transplant Rejection: Challenges and Promises. Front Immunol 2021; 12:661643. [PMID: 34093552 PMCID: PMC8173220 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.661643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite advances in post-transplant management, the long-term survival rate of kidney grafts and patients has not improved as approximately forty percent of transplants fails within ten years after transplantation. Both immunologic and non-immunologic factors contribute to late allograft loss. Chronic kidney transplant rejection (CKTR) is often clinically silent yet progressive allogeneic immune process that leads to cumulative graft injury, deterioration of graft function. Chronic active T cell mediated rejection (TCMR) and chronic active antibody-mediated rejection (ABMR) are classified as two principal subtypes of CKTR. While significant improvements have been made towards a better understanding of cellular and molecular mechanisms and diagnostic classifications of CKTR, lack of early detection, differential diagnosis and effective therapies continue to pose major challenges for long-term management. Recent development of high throughput cellular and molecular biotechnologies has allowed rapid development of new biomarkers associated with chronic renal injury, which not only provide insight into pathogenesis of chronic rejection but also allow for early detection. In parallel, several novel therapeutic strategies have emerged which may hold great promise for improvement of long-term graft and patient survival. With a brief overview of current understanding of pathogenesis, standard diagnosis and challenges in the context of CKTR, this mini-review aims to provide updates and insights into the latest development of promising novel biomarkers for diagnosis and novel therapeutic interventions to prevent and treat CKTR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingqiang Lai
- Comprehensive Transplant Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States.,Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States.,Organ Transplant Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xin Zheng
- Department of Urology, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - James M Mathew
- Comprehensive Transplant Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States.,Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Lorenzo Gallon
- Comprehensive Transplant Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States.,Department of Medicine, Nephrology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Joseph R Leventhal
- Comprehensive Transplant Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States.,Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Zheng Jenny Zhang
- Comprehensive Transplant Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States.,Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
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Vaulet T, Divard G, Thaunat O, Lerut E, Senev A, Aubert O, Van Loon E, Callemeyn J, Emonds MP, Van Craenenbroeck A, De Vusser K, Sprangers B, Rabeyrin M, Dubois V, Kuypers D, De Vos M, Loupy A, De Moor B, Naesens M. Data-driven Derivation and Validation of Novel Phenotypes for Acute Kidney Transplant Rejection using Semi-supervised Clustering. J Am Soc Nephrol 2021; 32:1084-1096. [PMID: 33687976 PMCID: PMC8259675 DOI: 10.1681/asn.2020101418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Over the past decades, an international group of experts iteratively developed a consensus classification of kidney transplant rejection phenotypes, known as the Banff classification. Data-driven clustering of kidney transplant histologic data could simplify the complex and discretionary rules of the Banff classification, while improving the association with graft failure. METHODS The data consisted of a training set of 3510 kidney-transplant biopsies from an observational cohort of 936 recipients. Independent validation of the results was performed on an external set of 3835 biopsies from 1989 patients. On the basis of acute histologic lesion scores and the presence of donor-specific HLA antibodies, stable clustering was achieved on the basis of a consensus of 400 different clustering partitions. Additional information on kidney-transplant failure was introduced with a weighted Euclidean distance. RESULTS Based on the proportion of ambiguous clustering, six clinically meaningful cluster phenotypes were identified. There was significant overlap with the existing Banff classification (adjusted rand index, 0.48). However, the data-driven approach eliminated intermediate and mixed phenotypes and created acute rejection clusters that are each significantly associated with graft failure. Finally, a novel visualization tool presents disease phenotypes and severity in a continuous manner, as a complement to the discrete clusters. CONCLUSIONS A semisupervised clustering approach for the identification of clinically meaningful novel phenotypes of kidney transplant rejection has been developed and validated. The approach has the potential to offer a more quantitative evaluation of rejection subtypes and severity, especially in situations in which the current histologic categorization is ambiguous.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thibaut Vaulet
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Stadius Center for Dynamical Systems, Signal Processing and Data Analytics, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Gillian Divard
- Université de Paris, National Institutes of Health and Medical Research, Paris Translational Research Centre for Organ Transplantation, Paris, France,Kidney Transplant Department, Necker Hospital, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Olivier Thaunat
- French National Institutes of Health and Medical Research, Lyon, France,Department of Transplantation, Nephrology and Clinical Immunology, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Edouard Herriot Hospital, Lyon, France
| | - Evelyne Lerut
- Department of Imaging and Pathology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Aleksandar Senev
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium,Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics Laboratory, Belgian Red Cross—Flanders, Mechelen, Belgium
| | - Olivier Aubert
- Université de Paris, National Institutes of Health and Medical Research, Paris Translational Research Centre for Organ Transplantation, Paris, France,Kidney Transplant Department, Necker Hospital, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Elisabet Van Loon
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jasper Callemeyn
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Marie-Paule Emonds
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium,Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics Laboratory, Belgian Red Cross—Flanders, Mechelen, Belgium
| | - Amaryllis Van Craenenbroeck
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium,Department of Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Katrien De Vusser
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium,Department of Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ben Sprangers
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium,Department of Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Maud Rabeyrin
- Department of Pathology, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
| | | | - Dirk Kuypers
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium,Department of Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Maarten De Vos
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Stadius Center for Dynamical Systems, Signal Processing and Data Analytics, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium,Department of Development and Regeneration, University Hospitals Leuven, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Alexandre Loupy
- Université de Paris, National Institutes of Health and Medical Research, Paris Translational Research Centre for Organ Transplantation, Paris, France,Kidney Transplant Department, Necker Hospital, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Bart De Moor
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Stadius Center for Dynamical Systems, Signal Processing and Data Analytics, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Maarten Naesens
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium,Department of Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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