Impact of Basiliximab on regulatory T-cells early after kidney transplantation: down-regulation of CD25 by receptor modulation

Transpl Int. 2010 May 1;23(5):514-23. doi: 10.1111/j.1432-2277.2009.01013.x. Epub 2009 Nov 30.

Abstract

Monoclonal anti-CD25-antibodies are successfully applied in organ transplantation to reduce the incidence of acute graft rejection. However, targeting the CD25 molecule might not only affect activated T-cells but also regulatory T-cells (T(regs)) constitutively expressing the CD4(+)CD25(+)CD127(low)FoxP3(+) phenotype. In this study, we investigated the influence of the anti-CD25-antibody Basiliximab on the frequency of T(regs) early after kidney transplantation comparing individuals receiving/not receiving induction therapy (n = 14 and n = 7). Following Basiliximab administration, a distinct loss of CD4(+)CD25(high) T-cells was observed lasting for at least 6 weeks. This was not accompanied by a disappearance of the entire CD4(+)CD25(+)FoxP3(+) T(regs) but rather a decreased expression density of CD25 on the latter. In addition, a transient rise in CD4(+)CD25(-)FoxP3(+) T-cells was found which expressed the CD127(low) phenotype. Thus, a phenotypic shift of T(regs) from the CD25(+) to the CD25(-) compartment was suggested. This was supported by in vitro findings showing that the disappearance of CD4(+)CD25(high) cells in the presence of Basiliximab was due to down-regulation of CD25 expression meanwhile the suppressive function of these cells was maintained. In conclusion, Basiliximab therapy directly affects CD4(+)CD25(+)CD127(low)FoxP3(+) T(regs) but does not seem to be associated with functional consequences. Thus, it is unlikely that Basiliximab treatment negatively influences strategies involving T(regs) to promote tolerance after organ transplantation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / therapeutic use*
  • Basiliximab
  • Biopsy
  • CD4-Positive T-Lymphocytes / cytology
  • Cell Proliferation
  • Down-Regulation*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Interleukin-2 Receptor alpha Subunit / biosynthesis*
  • Kidney / metabolism*
  • Kidney Transplantation / methods*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Recombinant Fusion Proteins / therapeutic use*
  • T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory / cytology
  • T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory / immunology*

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • Immunosuppressive Agents
  • Interleukin-2 Receptor alpha Subunit
  • Recombinant Fusion Proteins
  • Basiliximab