Clazakizumab for desensitization in highly sensitized patients awaiting transplantation.

Alloantibodies are a significant barrier to successful transplantation. While desensitization has emerged, efficacy is limited. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is an important mediator of inflammation and immune cell activation. Persistent IL-6 production increases the risk for alloantibody production. Here we report our experience with clazakizumab (anti-IL-6) for desensitization of highly HLA-sensitized patients (HS). From March 2018 to September 2020, 20 HS patients were enrolled in an open label pilot study to assess safety and limited efficacy of clazakizumab desensitization. Patients received PLEX, IVIg, and clazakizumab 25 mg monthly X6. If transplanted, graft function, pathology, HLA antibodies and regulatory immune cells were monitored. Transplanted patients received standard immunosuppression and clazakizumab 25 mg monthly posttransplant. Clazakizumab was well tolerated and associated with significant reductions in class I and class II antibodies allowing 18 of 20 patients to receive transplants with no DSA rebound in most. Significant increases in Treg and Breg cells were seen posttransplant. Antibody-mediated rejection occurred in three patients. The mean estimated glomerular filtration rate at 12 months was 58 ± 29 ml/min/1.73 m2 . Clazakizumab was generally safe and associated with significant reductions in HLA alloantibodies and high transplant rates for highly-sensitized patients. However, confirmation of efficacy for desensitization requires assessment in randomized controlled trials.

Long term tolerability and clinical outcomes associated with tocilizumab in the treatment of refractory antibody mediated rejection (AMR) in pediatric renal transplant recipients.

BACKGROUND: Treatment options for antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) are limited. Recent studies have shown that inhibition of interleukin-6 (IL-6)/interleukin-6 receptor (IL-6R) signaling can reduce inflammation and slow AMR progression. METHODS: We report our experience using monthly tocilizumab (anti-IL6R) in 25 pediatric renal transplant recipients with AMR, refractory to IVIg/Rituximab. From January 2013 to June 2019, a median (IQR) of 12 (6.019.0) doses of tocilizumab were given per patient. Serial assessments of renal function, biopsy findings, and HLA DSA (by immunodominant HLA DSA [iDSA] and relative intensity score [RIS]) were performed. RESULTS: Median (IQR) time from transplant to AMR was 41.4 (24.367.7) months, and time from AMR to first tocilizumab was 10.6 (8.317.6) months. At median (IQR) follow up of 15.8 (8.435.7) months post-tocilizumab initiation, renal function was stable except for 1 allograft loss. There was no significant decrease in iDSA or RIS. Follow up biopsies showed reduction in peritubular capillaritis (p = .015) and C4d scoring (p = .009). The most frequent adverse events were cytopenias. CONCLUSIONS: Tocilizumab in pediatric patients with refractory AMR was well tolerated and appeared to stabilize renal function. The utility of tocilizumab in the treatment of AMR in this population should be further explored.

Viral-specific cytotoxic T-cell responses in HLA-sensitized kidney transplant patients maintained on everolimus and low-dose tacrolimus.

BACKGROUND: Maintenance with "everolimus + reduced dose tacrolimus" (Ev + Taclow ) was reported to reduce the risk of viral infections compared to "tacrolimus + mycophenolate mofetil" (Tac + MMF). Here we examined viremia and viral-specific T-cell (viral-Tc) responses in patients treated with Ev + Taclow versus Tac + MMF in highly-human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-sensitized patients. METHODS: HLA-sensitized (HS) kidney transplant patients were monitored pre- and post-transplant for viremia (cytomegalovirus (CMV), BK, and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)) by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in 19 Ev + Taclow and 48 Tac + MMF patients. For CMV PCR analysis, we compared infection rates in 19 Ev + Taclow patients to 48 CMV D+/R- (#28) or CMV D-/R- (#20) Tac + MMF patients. CMV-specific cytotoxic T cell (CMV-Tc) and EBV-specific cytotoxic T cell (EBV-Tc) were evaluated by cytokine flow cytometry, and donor-specific antibody (DSA) levels by Luminex for selected patients in both groups. RESULTS: CMV and EBV viremia rates were similar in Ev + Taclow versus Tac + MMF patients, but BK virus (BKV) rates were significantly higher in Ev + Taclow patients. No patient in either group developed BK virus-associated allograft nephropathy (BKAN) or post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorders (PTLD). CMV-Tc and EBV-Tc decreased significantly after alemtuzumab induction but returned to pre-treatment levels 1-2 months post-transplant in most patients. de novo DSA was similar in both groups as were patient and graft survival and graft rejection. CONCLUSIONS: CMV-Tc and EBV-Tc were similar in Ev + Taclow and Tac + MMF patients. EBV and CMV viremia rates were similar over 1 year. BKV rates were significantly higher in Ev + Taclow patients suggesting no benefit for Ev + Taclow in enhancing viral-Tc effector functions or limiting viral infections.

Pre-transplant angiotensin II receptor type I antibodies in pediatric renal transplant recipients: An observational cohort study.

BACKGROUND: The role of angiotensin II type 1 receptor antibodies (AT1R-Ab) in pediatric renal transplantation is unclear. Here, we evaluated pre-transplant AT1R-Ab on transplant outcomes in the first 5 years. Secondary analysis compared pre-transplant AT1R-Ab levels by age. METHODS: Thirty-six patients, 2-20 years old, were divided into two groups: pre-transplant AT1R-Ab- (<17 U/ml; n = 18) and pre-transplant AT1R-Ab+ (≥17 U/ml; n = 18). eGFR was determined at 6-month, 1-, 2-, and 4-year post-transplant. Allograft biopsies were performed in the setting of strong HLA-DSA (MFI > 10 000), AT1R-Ab ≥17 U/ml, and/or elevated creatinine. RESULTS: Mean age in pre-transplant AT1R-Ab- was 13.3 years vs. 11.0 in pre-transplant AT1R-Ab+ (p = 0.16). At 6 months, mean eGFR was 111.3 ml/min/1.73 m2 in pre-transplant AT1R-Ab- vs. 100.2 in pre-transplant AT1R-Ab + at 1 year, 103.6 ml/min/1.73 m2 vs. 100.5; at 2 years, 98.9 ml/min/1.73 m2 vs. and 93.7; at 4 years, 72.6 ml/min/1.73 m2 vs. 80.9. 11/36 patients had acute rejection (6 in pre-transplant AT1R-Ab-, 5 in pre-transplant AT1R-Ab + ). There was no difference in rejection rates. All 6 subjects with de novo HLA-DSA and AT1R-Ab ≥17 U/ml at the time of biopsy experienced rejection. Mean age in those with the AT1R-Ab ≥40 U/ml was 10.0 years vs. 13.2 in those <40 U/ml (p = 0.07). CONCLUSION: In our small cohort, pre-transplant AT1R-Ab ≥17 U/ml was not associated with reduced graft function or rejection. The pathogenicity of pre-transplant AT1R-Ab in pediatric kidney transplantation requires further investigation.

The role of novel therapeutic approaches for prevention of allosensitization and antibody-mediated rejection.

Modification of pathogenic antibodies and their effector functions in autoimmune diseases or use of B cell/plasma cell-directed anticancer therapies have illuminated the biologic relevance of B cells, plasma cells (PCs), and pathogenic antibodies and complement in alloimmunity. They have also rejuvenated interest in how B cells mediate multiple effector functions that include antibody production, antigen presentation to T cells, costimulation, and the production of immune stimulating and immune modulatory cytokines that drive dysfunctional immune responses. Current methods to reduce alloantibodies are only modestly successful. Rituximab is used for desensitization and antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) treatment by targeting CD20 found on B-lymphocytes. However, PCs do not express CD20, likely explaining the limited success of this approach. Intravenous immunoglobulin and plasmapheresis (PLEX) have limited success due to antibody rebound. Despite attempts to develop tolerable therapeutics for management of AMR, none, to date, have been universally accepted or obtained Food and Drug Administration approval. Lack of approved therapeutics often results in patients having a much shorter graft survival due to AMR. Repurposing drugs from autoimmunity and cancer immunotherapy has rapidly yielded important advancements in the care of AMR patients. Here we discuss emerging therapeutics aimed at prevention and treatment of AMR.

IgG Endopeptidase in Highly Sensitized Patients Undergoing Transplantation.

BACKGROUND: Donor-specific antibodies create an immunologic barrier to transplantation. Current therapies to modify donor-specific antibodies are limited and ineffective in the most highly HLA-sensitized patients. The IgG-degrading enzyme derived from Streptococcus pyogenes (IdeS), an endopeptidase, cleaves human IgG into F(ab')2 and Fc fragments inhibiting complement-dependent cytotoxicity and antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity, which suggests that IdeS might be useful for desensitization. We report on the combined experience of two independently performed open-label, phase 1-2 trials (conducted in Sweden and the United States) that assessed the efficacy of IdeS with regard to desensitization and transplantation of a kidney from an HLA-incompatible donor. METHODS: We administered IdeS to 25 highly HLA-sensitized patients (11 patients in Uppsala or Stockholm, Sweden, and 14 in Los Angeles) before the transplantation of a kidney from an HLA-incompatible donor. Frequent monitoring for adverse events, outcomes, donor-specific antibodies, and renal function was performed, as were renal biopsies. Immunosuppression after transplantation consisted of tacrolimus, mycophenolate mofetil, and glucocorticoids. Patients in the U.S. study also received intravenous immune globulin and rituximab after transplantation to prevent antibody rebound. RESULTS: Recipients in the U.S. study had a significantly longer cold ischemia time (the time elapsed between procurement of the organ and transplantation), a significantly higher rate of delayed graft function, and significantly higher levels of class I donor-specific antibodies than those in the Swedish study. A total of 38 serious adverse events occurred in 15 patients (5 events were adjudicated as being possibly related to IdeS). At transplantation, total IgG and HLA antibodies were eliminated. A total of 24 of 25 patients had perfusion of allografts after transplantation. Antibody-mediated rejection occurred in 10 patients (7 patients in the U.S. study and 3 in the Swedish study) at 2 weeks to 5 months after transplantation; all these patients had a response to treatment. One graft loss, mediated by non-HLA IgM and IgA antibodies, occurred. CONCLUSIONS: IdeS reduced or eliminated donor-specific antibodies and permitted HLA-incompatible transplantation in 24 of 25 patients. (Funded by Hansa Medical; ClinicalTrials.gov numbers, NCT02224820 , NCT02426684 , and NCT02475551 .).

A phase I/II, double-blind, placebo-controlled study assessing safety and efficacy of C1 esterase inhibitor for prevention of delayed graft function in deceased donor kidney transplant recipients.

Delayed graft function (DGF) is defined as need for dialysis early posttransplant. DGF is related to ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) that diminishes allograft function and may be complement dependent. Here, we investigate the ability of C1 esterase inhibitor (C1INH) to prevent IRI/DGF in kidney transplant recipients. Seventy patients receiving deceased donor kidney transplants at risk for DGF were randomized to receive C1INH 50 U/kg (#35) or placebo (#35) intraoperatively and at 24 hours. The primary end point was need for hemodialysis during the first week posttransplant. Assessments of glomerular filtration rate and dialysis dependence were accomplished. Complications and safety of therapy were recorded. Similar characteristics with no significant differences in cold-ischemia time or risk factors for DGF were seen. C1INH did not result in reduction of dialysis sessions at 1 week posttransplant, but significantly fewer dialysis sessions (P = .0232) were required 2 to 4 weeks posttransplant. Patients at highest risk for DGF (Kidney Donor Profile Index ≥85) benefited most from C1INH therapy. Significantly better renal function was seen at 1 year in C1INH patients (P = .006). No significant adverse events were noted with C1INH. Although the primary end point was not met, significant reductions in need for dialysis and improvements in long-term allograft function were seen with C1INH treatment.

Differences in pathologic features and graft outcomes in antibody-mediated rejection of renal allografts due to persistent/recurrent versus de novo donor-specific antibodies.

Antibody-mediated rejection (ABMR) of renal allografts occurs in two forms. Type 1 ABMR results from persistence and/or a rebound of preexisting donor-specific antibodies in sensitized patients and usually occurs early post-transplantation. Type 2 ABMR is associated with de novo donor-specific antibodies and usually occurs over one year post-transplantation. It is generally accepted that types 1 and 2 also differ with regard to certain pathologic features including the frequencies of C4d positivity and concurrent cell-mediated rejection. However, direct comparison of pathologic, serologic, and clinical features of types 1 and 2 ABMR is lacking. Here we compared these features in 80 cases of ABMR (37 type 1, 43 type 2) diagnosed at our center. Compared with type 1, type 2 ABMR occurred later post-transplantation, was more often associated with donor-specific antibodies against Class II HLA, and was associated with more interstitial fibrosis/tubular atrophy and more frequent cell-mediated rejection, although these did not differ with respect to C4d positivity. By univariate analysis, graft survival was lower with type 2 than type 1 ABMR with borderline significance. Still, among these 80 patients, all but one treated for ABMR following diagnosis, the only two independent predictors of graft failure were at least moderate interstitial fibrosis/tubular atrophy and failure of the donor-specific antibody relative intensity scale score, a measure of the combined strength of all donor-specific antibodies present, to decrease in response to therapy.

Risk factors for the development of antibody-mediated rejection in highly sensitized pediatric kidney transplant recipients.

ABMR remains a significant concern for early graft loss, especially for those who are HS against HLA antigens. We sought to determine the risk factors leading to ABMR in HS pediatric kidney transplant recipients. From January 2009 to December 2015, 16 HS pediatric kidney transplant patients at our center (age range 2-21) were retrospectively reviewed for outcomes and risk factors for ABMR. All HS patients received desensitization with high-dose IVIG/rituximab prior to transplant. Two groups were examined: ABMR+ (n = 7) and ABMR- (n = 9). Patient survival was 100%; however, one patient in the ABMR+ group suffered graft loss from ABMR 16 months post-transplant. ABMR+ patients had higher Class I PRA at the time of transplant (Class I: 73.1 ± 19.1 vs 49.1 ± 28.3, P = .075), although not statistically significant. ABMR+ patients were more likely to have a history of transplant nephrectomy (P = .013). The characteristic that most strongly correlated with ABMR was the DSA-RIS (P = .045), a scoring system used to quantify cumulative intensity of all DSA. In conclusion, DSA, as quantified by the RIS at the time of transplant, should be considered as part of the initial allocation strategy and patients with high RIS monitored closely for ABMR post-transplant.

Six-year outcomes in broadly HLA-sensitized living donor transplant recipients desensitized with intravenous immunoglobulin and rituximab.

Desensitization with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and rituximab can improve transplantation rates in broadly sensitized kidney transplant recipients. However, long-term outcomes are lacking. Here we analyze long-term outcomes in living donor kidney transplant recipients desensitized with this regimen and compare them to low-risk recipients. Living donor kidney transplants that took place between July 2006 and December 2010 were considered retrospectively. The primary end point of the study was death-censored allograft survival at last follow-up. Secondary end points included patient survival, incidence of rejection, glomerular filtration rate (GFR), and proteinuria. There were 66 sensitized and 111 low-risk patients included. Average follow-up was 68 months. There was no difference in long-term patient or graft survival. The rate of rejection was similar in the groups with more early rejection in the sensitized group and more late rejection in the low-risk group. There was more antibody-mediated rejection in the sensitized group. Estimated GFR was similar during the follow-up period. Risk factors for rejection included a positive cross-match (HR: 2.4 CI: 1.35-4.40) and age (HR: 0.97 CI: 0.95-0.99). Desensitization with IVIG and rituximab has good long-term results with graft outcomes similar to non-HLA-sensitized patients despite higher immunologic risk.

Risk factors associated with the development of histocompatibility leukocyte antigen sensitization.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Despite excellent short-term kidney allograft survival rates, long-term outcomes have not improved. For years, the focus on improving these outcomes revolved around minimization or elimination of calcineurin toxicity. Despite our best efforts, approximately 5000 allografts are lost each year in the United States and results in a significant emotional burden for patients and financial burden for the healthcare system. RECENT FINDINGS: Advancements in detection of donor-specific histocompatibility leukocyte antigen antibodies (DSAs) and improved assessment of allograft biopsy tissue have shown that the most common cause for graft failures is DSA-related antibody-mediated rejection. Sensitization is directly related to human tissue exposure prior to transplant. We now know that sensitization can occur in patients who are non compliant or poorly compliant with their calcineurin inhibitors. They develop de-novo DSAs, which are responsible for numerous allograft losses around the world. SUMMARY: Given the current evidence, it is imperative that all transplant physicians recognize the importance of encouraging medication adherence to prevent the consequences of DSA-induced graft failure. However, little progress has been made in this area. Other potential therapeutic approaches based on B-cell depletion or modulation early posttransplant may help to reduce the risk for de-novo DSA development.

Kidney transplantation in highly sensitized patients.

BACKGROUND: Desensitization, a term loosely referring to a collection of antibody reduction and B-cell depletional therapies aimed at improving rates of transplantation in highly HLA and ABO-incompatible transplant recipients, has seen significant growth in the last decade. Advancements relate to an increasing unmet medical need for FDA-approved therapies, advancements in antibody detection methodologies and improved renal pathological assessments of antibody-mediated rejection (ABMR). SOURCES OF DATA, AREAS OF AGREEMENT AND CONTROVERSY: Data reviewed include collective summaries of experience with high-dose intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), B-cell depletion with rituximab and the use of plasma exchange with low-dose IVIG. Consensus suggests that these protocols are the most commonly used while experiences with other agents (i.e. bortezomib) are evolving. Controversy exists as to the extent of resources required, expense and outcomes of desensitization protocols. GROWING POINTS OR AREAS TIMELY FOR DEVELOPING RESEARCH: Here we review and synthesize data from evolving protocols and summarize developments of novel biologics aimed at modification of B-cells, antibodies and complement activation which will likely improve desensitization and treatment of ABMR.

Early recognition of risk factors for adverse outcomes during hospitalization among Medicare patients: a prospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: There is a persistently high incidence of adverse events during hospitalization among Medicare beneficiaries. Attributes of vulnerability are prevalent, readily apparent, and therefore potentially useful for recognizing those at greatest risk for hospital adverse events who may benefit most from preventive measures. We sought to identify patient characteristics associated with adverse events that are present early in a hospital stay. METHODS: An interprofessional panel selected characteristics thought to confer risk of hospital adverse events and measurable within the setting of acute illness. A convenience sample of 214 Medicare beneficiaries admitted to a large, academic medical center were included in a quality improvement project to develop risk assessment protocols. The data were subsequently analyzed as a prospective cohort study to test the association of risk factors, assessed within 24 hours of hospital admission, with falls, hospital-acquired pressure ulcers (HAPU) and infections (HAI), adverse drug reactions (ADE) and 30-day readmissions. RESULTS: Mean age = 75(±13.4) years. Risk factors with highest prevalence included >4 active comorbidities (73.8%), polypharmacy (51.7%), and anemia (48.1%). One or more adverse hospital outcomes occurred in 46 patients (21.5%); 56 patients (26.2%) were readmitted within 30 days. Cluster analysis described three adverse outcomes: 30-day readmission, and two groups of in-hospital outcomes. Distinct regression models were identified: Weight loss (OR = 3.83; 95% CI = 1.46, 10.08) and potentially inappropriate medications (OR = 3.05; 95% CI = 1.19, 7.83) were associated with falls, HAPU, procedural complications, or transfer to intensive care; cognitive impairment (OR = 2.32; 95% CI = 1.24, 4.37), anemia (OR = 1.87; 95% CI = 1.00, 3.51) and weight loss (OR = 2.89; 95% CI = 1.38, 6.07) were associated with HAI, ADE, or length of stay >7 days; hyponatremia (OR = 3.49; 95% CI = 1.30, 9.35), prior hospitalization within 30 days (OR = 2.66; 95% CI = 1.31, 5.43) and functional impairment (OR = 2.05; 95% CI = 1.02, 4.13) were associated with 30-day readmission. CONCLUSIONS: Patient characteristics recognizable within 24 hours of admission can be used to identify increased risk for adverse events and 30-day readmission.

Evaluation of Clazakizumab (Anti-Interleukin-6) in Patients With Treatment-Resistant Chronic Active Antibody-Mediated Rejection of Kidney Allografts.

Introduction: Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is an important mediator of inflammation and activation of T cells, B cells, and plasma cells. Excessive IL-6 production is linked to human diseases characterized by unregulated antibody production, including alloimmunity, where persistence of donor-specific antibodies (DSAs), chronic active antibody-mediated rejection (cAMR), and graft loss are noted. Here, we report our experience investigating clazakizumab, a novel IL-6 inhibitor, in treating human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-sensitized patients with cAMR. Methods: Between February 2018 and January 2019, 10 adults with biopsy-proven cAMR were enrolled in a phase 2, single-center, open-label study. Patients received clazakizumab 25 mg subcutaneously (s.c.) monthly for 12 months, with a 6-month protocol biopsy. Primary end points included patient survival, graft survival, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and safety. Secondary end points assessed immune markers (DSAs, IgG, T-regulatory [Treg] cells). At 12 months, stable patients entered a long-term extension (LTE). Results: LTE patients received clazakizumab for >2.5 years. Mean eGFRs showed significant declines from -24 months to study initiation (0 months) (52.8 ± 14.6 to 38.11 ± 12.23 ml/min per 1.73 m2, P = 0.03). However, after initiation of clazakizumab, eGFR stabilized at (41.6 ± 14.2 and 38.1 ± 20.3 ml/min per 1.73 m2, at 12 and 24 months, respectively). Banff 2017 analysis of pre- and post-treatment biopsies showed reductions in g+ptc and C4d scores. DSA reductions were seen in most patients. Adverse events (AEs) were minimal, and 2 graft losses occurred, both in patients who discontinued clazakizumab therapy at 6 months and 12 months after study initiation. Conclusion: In this small cohort of patients with cAMR, clazakizumab treatment showed a trend toward stabilization of eGFR and reductions in DSA and graft inflammation. No significant safety issues were observed. A randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial (IMAGINE) of clazakizumab in cAMR treatment is underway (NCT03744910).

Imlifidase Inhibits HLA Antibody-mediated NK Cell Activation and Antibody-dependent Cell-mediated Cytotoxicity (ADCC) In Vitro.

BACKGROUND: Antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) is an important pathway responsible for antibody-mediated rejection (AMR). Imlifidase (IdeS) cleaves human IgG into F(ab')2 and Fc fragments, potentially inhibiting ADCC. Here we examined the effect of IdeS on allo-antibody-mediated NK cell activation (Allo-CFC) and ADCC in vitro. METHODS: For Allo-CFC, normal whole blood was incubated with third-party peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) pretreated with anti-HLA antibody positive (HS) or negative (NC) sera to measure IFNγ+ NK cell%. For ADCC, normal PBMCs were incubated with Farage B (FB) cells with HS or NC sera to measure 7-AAD+ lysed FB cell%. To assess the effect of IdeS on these assays, serum-treated PBMCs (Allo-CFC-1) and serum used for PBMC pretreatment (Allo-CFC-2) in Allo-CFC, and serum used for ADCC were preincubated with IdeS. Sera from IdeS-treated patients were also tested for Allo-CFC (Allo-CFC-3). RESULTS: IFNγ+ NK cell% were significantly elevated in HS versus NC sera in Allo-CFC-1 (10 ± 3% versus 2 ± 1%, P = 0.001), Allo-CFC-2 (20 ± 10% versus 4 ± 2%, P = 0.01) and 7AAD+ FB cell% (11 ± 3% versus 4 ± 2%, P = 0.02) in ADCC. These were significantly reduced by IdeS treatment. Patient sera with significantly reduced anti-HLA antibody levels at 1 day postimlifidase lost the capacity to activate NK cells in Allo-CFC-3, but those at 1-3 months postimlifidase regained the capacity. CONCLUSIONS: IdeS inhibited NK cell activation and ADCC in vitro and in treated patients. These results and reported inhibition of complement activating anti-HLA antibodies by IdeS suggest its possible role in treatment of AMR.

Interleukin-6: An Important Mediator of Allograft Injury.

Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a cytokine with critical innate and adaptive immunity functions. Its diverse immunological and physiological actions include direction of immune cell differentiation, initial response to invading pathogens and ischemic injury, sustained plasma cell growth, and immunoglobulin production. IL-6 transcriptional dysregulation is commonly seen in patients with autoimmune or inflammatory disorders. Emerging information suggests that IL-6 transcription is upregulated in patients with kidney and heart transplant rejection and may account for perpetuation of inflammatory responses in the allograft, leading to allograft rejection and vasculopathy. IL-6-directed therapeutics include monoclonal antibodies directed at IL-6, the IL-6 receptor (IL-6R), and Janus kinase inhibitors. IL-6-mediated signaling to cell targets is unique, involving classic signaling (IL-6->IL-6R) cell membrane receptors, transsignaling (IL-6->soluble IL-6R->gp130) which activates any cell, and the recently discovered IL-6/IL-6R transpresentation in which antigen-presenting cells synthesize and express IL-6/IL-6R complexes, which are transported through the cell membrane subsequently interacting with gp130 to costimulate T cells. Currently, there are new trials in autoimmunity and heart and kidney transplantation to determine effectiveness of inhibiting IL-6/IL-6R to ameliorate chronic allograft rejection and coronary allograft vasculopathy. Therapeutic trials aimed at prevention of ischemia/reperfusion injury to allografts based on animal data should be considered.

Outcomes of Conversion From Calcineurin Inhibitor to Belatacept-based Immunosuppression in HLA-sensitized Kidney Transplant Recipients.

BACKGROUND: The efficacy and safety of belatacept when converted from calcineurin inhibitors (CNI) in HLA-sensitized (HS) kidney transplant recipients has not been established. METHODS: The study included 108 kidney transplant recipients converted from CNI to belatacept between July 1, 2012, and September 30, 2017. Rejection-free, patient, and graft survival over 5 years follow-up were compared between HS and non-HLA-sensitized (non-HS) recipients using the Kaplan-Meier product-limit method. The estimated glomerular filtration rate slope postconversion was compared using linear mixed effects models. RESULTS: There were 29 HS and 79 non-HS recipients included. Rejections after conversion were mostly cell-mediated. There was no difference in rejection-free survival (log-rank P = 0.30; at 5 y, HS: 82%; non-HS: 84.6%); however, rejection-free survival was lower among HS recipients converted within the first-year posttransplant compared to non-HS recipients (log-rank P = 0.03; at 5 y, HS: 55.6%; non-HS: 75.0%). There was no difference in patient survival (log-rank P = 0.75; at 5 y, HS: 85.7%, non-HS: 83.7%) or graft survival (log-rank P = 0.17; at 5 y, HS: 78.5%, non-HS: 89.8%) in the 2 groups. On average, estimated glomerular filtration rate slope improved postconversion in non-HS (0.28 mL/min/1.73 m/y [0.03 to 0.53]) but declined in HS recipients (-0.44 mL/min/1.73 m/y [-0.85 to -0.03]). CONCLUSIONS: There was no difference in rejection-free, patient, or graft survival after conversion to belatacept over 5 years among HS and non-HS recipients. However, rejection-free survival was lower in HS recipients converted to belatacept within the first-year posttransplant. Conversion from CNI to belatacept should be done cautiously in high immunologic risk patients.

Three-Year Outcomes of a Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study Assessing Safety and Efficacy of C1 Esterase Inhibitor for Prevention of Delayed Graft Function in Deceased Donor Kidney Transplant Recipients.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Delayed graft function is related to ischemia-reperfusion injury and may be complement dependent. We previously reported from a randomized, placebo-controlled trial that treatment with C1 esterase inhibitor was associated with a shorter duration of delayed graft function and higher eGFR at 1 year. Here, we report longer-term outcomes from this trial. DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, & MEASUREMENTS: This is a post hoc analysis of a phase 1/2, randomized, controlled trial enrolling 70 recipients of deceased donor kidney transplants at risk for delayed graft function (NCT02134314). Subjects were randomized to receive C1 esterase inhibitor 50 U/kg (n=35) or placebo (n=35) intraoperatively and at 24 hours. The cumulative incidence functions method was used to compare graft failure and death over 3.5 years. eGFR slopes were compared using a linear mixed effects model. RESULTS: Three deaths occurred among C1 esterase inhibitor-treated patients compared with none receiving placebo. Seven graft failures developed in the placebo group compared with one among C1 esterase inhibitor-treated recipients; the cumulative incidence of graft failure was lower over 3.5 years among C1 esterase inhibitor-treated recipients compared with placebo (P=0.03). Although no difference in eGFR slopes was observed between groups (P for group-time interaction =0.12), eGFR declined in placebo-treated recipients (-4 ml/min per 1.73 m2 per year; 95% confidence interval, -8 to -0.1) but was stable in C1 esterase inhibitor-treated patients (eGFR slope: 0.5 ml/min per 1.73 m2 per year; 95% confidence interval, -4 to 5). At 3.5 years, eGFR was 56 ml/min per 1.73 m2 (95% confidence interval, 42 to 70) in the C1 esterase inhibitor group versus 35 ml/min per 1.73 m2 (95% confidence interval, 21 to 48) in the placebo group, with an estimated mean eGFR difference of 21 ml/min per 1.73 m2 (95% confidence interval, 2 to 41 ml/min per 1.73 m2). CONCLUSIONS: Treatment of patients at risk for ischemia-reperfusion injury and delayed graft function with C1 esterase inhibitor was associated with a lower incidence of graft failure.

Clinical Relevance of Posttransplant DSAs in Patients Receiving Desensitization for HLA-incompatible Kidney Transplantation.

BACKGROUND: Highly HLA-sensitized (HS) patients have an increased risk for the development of donor-specific antibodies (DSA) and antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) posttransplant. Here, we examined the risk for AMR in HS patients transplanted after desensitization (DES) who were DSA+ versus DSA- at transplant. We also examined the incidence and clinical impact of de novo DSAs (dnDSAs) and compared with dnDSA- patients. METHODS: From January 2013 to October 2016, 90 HS patients (PRA > 80%, DSA+ = 50 versus DSA- = 40) received kidney transplantation after DES with IVIG + rituximab ± PLEX (plasma exchange) ± tocilizumab. DSAs were monitored at transplant and at 1, 3, 6, 12, 24, 36, and 48 months posttransplant. RESULTS: Patients were divided into 4 groups: DSA+/+ (n = 31), DSA+/- (n=19), DSA-/+ (n=10), and DSA-/- (n = 30). Median follow-up time was 2.9 years. DSA-negative patients who developed dnDSA had the highest incidence of AMR (70%) compared with the DSA+/+ (45%), DSA+/- (11%), and DSA-/- (10%) patients (P < 0.0001). Among patients who developed AMR, Banff 2013 AMR scores did not differ among the 4 groups. Graft survival and estimated glomerular filtration rate determinations at 4 years were similar. CONCLUSIONS: Persistence of preexisting DSAs or development of dnDSA after transplant is associated with an increased risk for AMR. Despite this, we did not observe a difference in Banff biopsy scores, graft survival, or patient survival compared with those without DSAs after transplant. Thus, for HS patients undergoing HLA-incompatible kidney transplant, DES therapy and frequent monitoring for dnDSAs appears critical for good long-term survival in at-risk groups.