A reduction of asymmetric dimethylarginine in renal transplant recipients receiving sirolimus-based regimen.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: Sirolimus may be of benefit in terms ofa reduction of cardiovascular disease in renal transplant recipients. The aim of the present study was to investigate cardiovascular risk markers in renal transplant recipients receiving calcineurin inhibitors (CNI-based regimen), as compared to those receiving sirolimus (SRL-based regimen). MATERIAL AND METHOD: 42 patients were recruited (21 patients for each regimen). Plasma concentrations of cardiovascular risk markers, including asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), nitric oxide (NO), homocysteine (Hcy), and total antioxidant status (TAOS) were measured. RESULTS: Plasma ADMA concentrations were lower in patients with SRL-based regimen, as compared to those with CNI-based regimen (0.52 ± 0.02 and 0.60 ± 0.02 µmol/L, p = 0.027). There were no statistically significant differences seen in NO, Hcy, and TAOS between the two treatments. CONCLUSION: As compared to CNI-based regimen, cardiovascular risk marker (ADMA) levels are lower in patients with SRL-based regimen.