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Updated: Aug 19, 2026

Investigating the Immunological Mechanisms Underlying Organ Transplant Rejection
Published on: August 20, 2007
Basic mechanisms of humoral rejection
Marilia Cascalho1, Jeffrey L Platt
1Transplantation Biology and the Departments of Immunology, Surgery and Pediatrics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
Humoral rejection is among the most vexing problems afflicting organ transplants. Triggered by antibodies predominantly against donor human leukocyte (HLA), humoral rejection can now be understood through consideration of basic mechanisms of immunity to foreign antigens and impact of humoral immunity on blood vessels. Basic considerations may also shed light on mechanisms by which various treatments have recently brought about vastly improved outcomes.
Humoral rejection is among the most vexing problems afflicting organ transplants. Triggered by antibodies predominantly against donor human leukocyte (HLA), humoral rejection can now be understood through consideration of basic mechanisms of immunity to foreign antigens and impact of humoral immunity on blood vessels. Basic considerations may also shed light on mechanisms by which various treatments have recently brought about vastly improved outcomes.
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