Objective: To analyse IL-2, IL-2R mRNA gene expression and protein production before, during, and after rejection of heart transplantation in vitro model.
Method: The in vitro system consists of peripheral PBMC of health donor as response cells and cardiomyocytes of patient suffering from acyanotic congenital heart disease as stimulating cells. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was used.
Results: mRNA transcription and protein production of IL-2, IL-2R rose markedly after stimulation of alloantigen, and were different from those of the control (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). The summit of IL-2, IL-2R mRNA transcription was detected 24 hours after initiation of mixed culture, 48 hours earlier than the time (72 hours) at which damage of cardiomyocytes was detected electronmicroscopy and the peak of IL-2, IL-2R protein production detected.
Conclusion: IL-2/IL-2R system plays an important role in the rejection of heart transplantation. Detection of IL-2, IL-2R mRNA transcription is significant for early diagnosis of rejection. RT-PCR makes analysis of mRNA rapid, and is sensitive and high specific.