The Clinical Impact of Non-HLA Antibodies in Solid Organ Transplantation

Clin Transpl. 2016:32:31-43.

Abstract

Antibody-mediated rejection in solid organ transplantation is associated with significant organ dysfunction and allograft loss. Donor-specific antibodies against human leukocyte antigens (HLAs) have been a major focus for research, clinical testing, and therapies. Recently, non-HLA autoantibodies to various endothelial antigens including angiotensin II type 1 receptor, endothelin-1 type A receptor, Major Histocompatibility Complex Class 1-Related Chain A, perlecan, and collagen V are emerging as both potential mediators of allograft dysfunction and targets for intervention. Incorporation of non-HLA antibodies into clinical practice is currently not standardized due to a lack of consensus regarding the pathogenic effects on the allograft. Treatment strategies for non-HLA antibodies are evolving and remain an area that warrants further investigation.

Keywords: antibody-mediated rejection; autoantibodies; non-HLA antibodies; transplantation.

MeSH terms

  • Antibodies*
  • Autoantibodies*
  • Graft Rejection
  • HLA Antigens*
  • Humans
  • Kidney Transplantation
  • Organ Transplantation*
  • Receptor, Angiotensin, Type 1
  • Tissue Donors
  • Transplantation, Homologous

Substances

  • Antibodies
  • Autoantibodies
  • HLA Antigens
  • Receptor, Angiotensin, Type 1