Mannose-binding lectin genotypes and outcome in end-stage renal disease: a prospective cohort study

Patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) have high morbidity and mortality rates, with cardiovascular diseases and infections being the major causes of death. Mannose-binding lectin (MBL) has been suggested to play a protective role in this regard. The aim of this study was to investigate a possible clinical association of MBL genotypes (MBL2) with outcome among patients on dialysis or with a functioning graft.

A total of 98 patients with ESRD accepted for living-donor renal transplantation or on the waiting list for transplantation were included and prospectively followed for an average of 9 years (range 7.5-9.9). Medical records were evaluated regarding transplantation status, diabetes mellitus, vascular parameters and infections for all the patients. Cox regression models and logistic regression analysis were used for statistical analyses. The cohort was divided into two groups according to the MBL2 genotype (normal A/A versus variant A/O or O/O).

We found no evidence for an association between the MBL2 genotype and all-cause mortality, cardiovascular events or bacterial infections (pneumonia, urinary tract infection, fistula infection or other infections).

In this cohort, the MBL2 genotype did not seem to be associated with any long-term clinical effects in ESRD patients on dialysis or with a functioning graft.