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A Rat Orthotopic Renal Transplantation Model for Renal Allograft Rejection
Published on: February 2, 2022
Insertion/Deletion polymorphism of Angiotensin-converting enzyme as a risk factor for chronic allograft nephropathy
R Fedor1, L Asztalos, L Löcsey
1Department of Surgery, Transplantation Center, Medical and Health Science Center, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary. f_roli@yahoo.com
Abstract:
Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor therapy is widely used to treat chronic allograft nephropathy (CAN), which suggests a possible role of the renin-angiotensin system in the pathologic mechanism of the disease. The objective of this study was to investigate the possible link between CAN and ACE. The ACE insertion/deletion polymorphism and the amount and activity of ACE were determined in cadaver kidney recipients with CAN (n = 38) or normal renal function (n = 34). The DD genotype was observed significantly more frequently in the CAN group compared with the group with normal renal function. Moreover, the DD genotype was associated with a higher serum ACE concentration and greater serum ACE activity, compared with II genotype homozygotes. The insertion/deletion polymorphism of ACE affects ACE expression and activity in serum, and, therefore, may have an important role in the pathogenesis of CAN. These findings suggest that determination of the ACE genotype may be useful in identifying patients at high risk. In particular, the DD genotype may be considered an indication for ACE inhibitor therapy.
Insights
The angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) DD genotype is linked to chronic allograft nephropathy (CAN). This finding suggests ACE genotype may predict risk and guide ACE inhibitor therapy for kidney transplant patients.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Genetics
- Immunology
Background:
- Chronic allograft nephropathy (CAN) treatment often involves angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, implying the renin-angiotensin system's role.
- The specific role of ACE in CAN pathogenesis requires further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between the ACE insertion/deletion polymorphism and the development of CAN.
- To determine if ACE genotype influences serum ACE levels and activity in kidney transplant recipients.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of ACE insertion/deletion polymorphism in kidney transplant recipients with CAN (n=38) and normal renal function (n=34).
- Measurement of serum ACE concentration and activity in relation to ACE genotype.
Main Results:
- The DD genotype was significantly more prevalent in the CAN group compared to the control group.
- Individuals with the DD genotype exhibited higher serum ACE concentrations and activity than those with the II genotype.
Conclusions:
- The ACE insertion/deletion polymorphism influences ACE expression and activity, potentially playing a role in CAN pathogenesis.
- ACE genotype determination could aid in identifying patients at high risk for CAN.
- The DD genotype may serve as an indicator for initiating ACE inhibitor therapy in kidney transplant recipients.
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