Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 20, 2026
18:48
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
Interleukin-9 in stable liver transplant recipients
E Fábrega1, M López-Hoyos, D San Segundo
1Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Marqués de Valdecilla, Santander, Spain.
Transplantation Proceedings
|July 31, 2012
Summary
Serum Interleukin-9 (IL-9) levels are higher in liver transplant recipients, particularly those with lower immunosuppressant drug levels. This suggests a potential role for IL-9 in promoting tolerance after liver transplantation.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Transplantation Medicine
- Clinical Research
Background:
- Interleukin-9 (IL-9) is implicated in maintaining immune tolerance.
- Its role in human liver transplantation remains largely uninvestigated.
- This study explores IL-9's association with immunosuppression in liver transplant recipients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To measure serum IL-9 levels in stable liver transplant recipients.
- To investigate the relationship between IL-9 levels and immunosuppressant drug load.
- To explore potential links between IL-9 and transplant tolerance.
Main Methods:
- Serum IL-9 levels were quantified in 30 stable liver transplant recipients and 34 healthy controls.
- Recipients were categorized based on calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) blood levels (high vs. low).
- Cyclosporine and tacrolimus levels were used to define high and low CNI groups.
Main Results:
- Liver transplant recipients exhibited significantly higher serum IL-9 concentrations than healthy subjects.
- Patients with low CNI levels demonstrated elevated serum IL-9.
- This association was more pronounced with lower tacrolimus levels, though not statistically significant.
Conclusions:
- Elevated serum IL-9 concentrations appear to correlate with a reduced immunosuppressive drug burden in liver transplant recipients.
- These findings suggest a potential role for IL-9 in fostering immune tolerance post-liver transplantation.
- Further research is needed to confirm IL-9's role in liver transplant tolerance.
