Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 28, 2026
11:16
Preparation and Gene Modification of Nonhuman Primate Hematopoietic Stem and Progenitor Cells
Published on: February 15, 2019
8.2K
Antibody-Mediated Rejection in Sensitized Nonhuman Primates: Modeling Human Biology.
C K Burghuber1,2, J Kwun1,3, E J Page1
1Emory Transplant Center, Department of Surgery, Emory School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA.
Summary
This study developed a primate model for transplant sensitization, finding that T cell depletion improved outcomes over basiliximab but did not prevent antibody-mediated rejection or donor-specific antibody rise.
Area of Science:
- Transplantation immunology
- Immunosuppression strategies
- Nonhuman primate models
Background:
- Developing effective immunosuppression for sensitized transplant recipients remains a challenge.
- Donor-specific antibodies (DSA) are a major barrier to successful transplantation in sensitized individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish a nonhuman primate model of sensitization.
- To evaluate two immunosuppressive regimens (basiliximab vs. T cell depletion) in sensitized recipients undergoing kidney transplantation.
Main Methods:
- Nonhuman primates underwent skin transplantation followed by kidney transplantation from the same donor.
- Donor-specific antibody response was monitored by flow cross-match.
- Immunosuppression included tacrolimus, mycophenolate, and methylprednisolone, with either basiliximab induction or T cell depletion (anti-CD4/CD8 mAbs).
Main Results:
- Both regimens resulted in antibody-mediated rejection (AMR).
- T cell depletion prolonged graft survival compared to basiliximab but did not prevent rejection.
- DSA rebound and deteriorating kidney function were observed, linked to increased B cell and T follicular helper cell activity.
Conclusions:
- The established nonhuman primate model effectively replicates sensitization and rejection.
- Current immunosuppressive strategies, including T cell depletion, are insufficient to overcome sensitization.
- The model offers a platform for testing novel desensitization strategies to improve outcomes for sensitized transplant candidates.
