Mechanism and regulation of the complement activity in kidney xenotransplantation

Xenotransplantation is emerging as one of several potential solutions for addressing organ donor shortages, with significant progress bringing it closer to clinical application. However, challenges remain, particularly concerning complement system dysregulation caused by species differences, as well as xenoantigens and coagulopathy. Complement regulatory proteins expressed on endothelial cells of donor xenografts are less compatible with complement components in recipients. These difficulties contribute to hyperacute rejection, characterized by antibody-mediated complement activation that destroys the graft within 24 h. Moreover, because molecules are incompatible across different species, ischemia-reperfusion injury or infection can easily elicit complement activity via all three pathways, resulting in xenograft loss via complement-mediated vascular injury. Complement activity also stimulate innate and adaptive immune cells. To address this issue, genetic modifications in donor pigs and the development of novel medicines have been tested in preclinical models with promising results. Pigs modified to express human complement-regulating molecules such as CD46, CD55, and CD59 have shown longer kidney xenograft survivals over years in preclinical models with nonhuman primates, paving the way for clinical trials. Anti-complement component agents such as C1 esterase and C5 inhibitors have also been shown to increase xenograft survivals. This review examines the role of the complement system in kidney xenotransplantation, emphasizing new research and clinical trial advancements.