TRANSPLANTATION IMMUNOLOGYIntroduction

Transplantation Immunology Introduction ( JXUTCM )1

Transplantation is the replacement of an organ or other tissue such

as bone marrow, with organs or tissues derived ordinarily from

non-self source such as an allogeneic donor. Organs include

Kidney, Liver, Heart, Lung, Pancreas, Intestine, Skin etc.

NB: Allogeneic – denoting, relation to tissues or cells that are genetically

dissimilar and hence immunologically incompatible although from

individuals of same specie.

Transplantation

Transplantation Immunology Introduction ( JXUTCM )2

This is the study of immunological reactivity of a recipient to

transplanted organs or tissues from a histoincompatible

recipient. Effector mechanisms of transplantation rejection or

transplantation immunity consist of cell-mediated immunity

and/or humoral antibody immunity, depending upon the

category of rejection.

For example, hyperacute rejection of an organ such as a renal

allograft is mediated by preformed antibodies and takes place

soon after the vascular anastomosis is completed in

transplantation.

Transplantation Immunology Introduction ( JXUTCM )3

Transplantation Immunology

Transplantation is an effective treatment for patients with

established organ failure, but rejection by the immune system

remains a major challenge. Clinical success in preventing and

treating transplant rejection is achieved using increasingly

potent immunosuppressive drugs to inhibit the immune

response.

In any normal immune response, for example when we fight a

virus infection, the correct level of control of the response is

essential.

Transplantation Immunology Introduction ( JXUTCM )4

Need for Transplantation

Immunology

A half-hearted response will not clear the infection, while one

that is excessive will lead to unwanted tissue damage.

Understanding how the immune system is controlled and how it

promotes the development of specialized cells that can regulate

its activity holds the key to the development of novel

approaches to manipulate immune responses more selectively

after transplantation.

Important Needs:

Preventing and Predicting Transplant Rejection

Improving Long Term Outcomes

Reducing Side Effects of Immunosuppressive Drugs

Transplantation Immunology Introduction ( JXUTCM )5

Transplantation Immunology Introduction ( JXUTCM )6

Immunological Basis of Transplantation i.e. Types of cells

involved / Immunosuppression in Transplantation