Clinical application of mTORi based immunosuppression for renal transplantation in India

Long-term renal graft survival is hampered by allograft dysfunction and cardiovascular disease resulting from calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs). This has led to the development of immunosuppressive regimens involving mammalian target of rapamaycin (mTOR) inhibitors, sirolimus and everolimus. They seem to provide long-term benefits for kidney function in transplant patients because of their anti-proliferation and anti-tumor properties and absence of nephrotoxicity. Their use has been evaluated in therapeutic regimens aimed at reducing the nephrotoxicity associated with CNIs. Both proactive and reactive strategies have been used. Whether existing strategies of using mTORi in renal transplantation is applicable for Indian patient's remains to be seen. Data on side effect profile, economic viability and the impact of these drugs on infections, particularly in India, are worth documenting. After briefly reviewing available data from India, this article explores the indications, patient populations; timing and practical aspects as well as the safety and efficacy of mTORi-based regimens for renal transplantation and suggests a framework which could allow transplant physicians to tailor its use to their own practice with particular reference to the Indian subcontinent.