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In Vitro and In Vivo Assessment of T, B and Myeloid Cells Suppressive Activity and Humoral Responses from Transplant Recipients
Published on: August 12, 2017
Immune responsiveness and protective immunity after transplantation
Shivaprakash Gangappa1, Kenneth E Kokko, Lisa M Carlson
1Emory Transplant Center, Department of Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
Vaccinating transplant patients is challenging due to immunosuppression. More research is needed to understand immune responses and develop safe, effective vaccination strategies for these vulnerable individuals.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Transplantation Medicine
- Vaccinology
Background:
- Solid organ transplantation success presents immunization challenges.
- Immunosuppressed patients face risks with live attenuated vaccines and reduced efficacy with killed vaccines.
- Limited knowledge hinders vaccination guideline development for transplant recipients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the impact of immunosuppressants on immune response to vaccination in transplant patients.
- To highlight the need for further research into vaccination strategies for immunosuppressed individuals.
Main Methods:
- Review of current understanding of immunosuppressants' effects on the immune system.
- Analysis of the immune system's ability to respond to vaccination under immunosuppression.
Main Results:
- Immunosuppression significantly impacts both innate and adaptive immunity in transplant recipients.
- Live attenuated vaccines pose risks, while killed vaccines may have reduced efficacy.
- Current knowledge gaps exist regarding vaccine safety and efficacy in this population.
Conclusions:
- Systematic, longitudinal studies in humans and nonhuman primates are crucial.
- Understanding immune defects in transplant recipients will aid in developing effective vaccination strategies.
- Addressing these knowledge gaps is vital for improving transplant patient health and safety.
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