Early conversion to belatacept post-transplantation: state of the art and expert opinion

The standard immunosuppressive treatment after organ transplantation typically includes a calcineurin inhibitor (tacrolimus or cyclosporine A), an antimetabolite (mycophenolic acid) or an mTOR inhibitor, and corticosteroids. However, these treatments are associated with multiple side effects, including nephrotoxicity. Belatacept, a fusion protein blocking the CD80/86 costimulation pathway, emerges as an effective and well-tolerated alternative. Initial phase III studies showed that de novo belatacept improves renal function and reduces the incidence of donor-specific antibodies, despite a higher rate of acute cellular rejections. Early conversion studies (within the first 6 months post-transplantation) demonstrate significant improvement in renal function, particularly when conversion is performed early. However, the risk of acute rejection and opportunistic infections must be monitored. This article summarizes the available studies on early conversion to belatacept in kidney transplanted patients.