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Updated: Jul 7, 2026
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Murine Full-thickness Skin Transplantation
Published on: January 2, 2017
Minimizing immunosuppression, an alternative approach to reducing side effects: objectives and interim result
Titte R Srinivas1, Herwig-Ulf Meier-Kriesche
1Division of Nephrology, Hypertension and Transplantation, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA.
Summary
Cyclosporine and tacrolimus (CNI) protocols improve short-term transplant success, but long-term graft function and side effects remain issues. Minimization strategies require further validation in clinical trials.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Immunosuppression
- Transplantation
Background:
- CNI-based immunosuppression offers excellent short-term renal transplant outcomes.
- Long-term graft function decline and adverse effects of immunosuppressants are significant challenges.
- CNI nephrotoxicity and steroid-related complications impact patient quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review CNI and steroid minimization strategies in renal transplantation.
- To discuss the risks and benefits of reducing immunosuppressive drug doses.
- To evaluate newer agents as alternatives to CNIs or steroids.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on CNI or steroid minimization.
- Analysis of risks versus benefits of immunosuppressive drug reduction.
- Discussion of newer immunosuppressive agents like mycophenolate mofetil and sirolimus.
Main Results:
- CNI and steroid minimization strategies aim to mitigate long-term side effects.
- Newer agents offer potential for CNI or steroid withdrawal.
- Current data suggests CNIs and steroids remain the standard of care.
Conclusions:
- Long-term safety and efficacy of CNI/steroid minimization require further validation.
- Controlled clinical trials with long-term follow-up are essential.
- The established CNI and steroid regimens are currently the proven standard for renal transplant patients.
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