Role of leukocytes and leukocyte adhesion molecules in renal ischemic-reperfusion injury

Renal ischemic-reperfusion injury (IRI) occurs frequently in transplanted as well as native kidneys. Effective treatment for this process is still elusive. Leukocytes and their products may be important in the pathogenesis of renal IRI, however their role is still controversial. Recently, adhesion receptors on leukocytes and their corresponding ligands have been identified. In the heart, considerable evidence supports the role of CD11/CD18, ICAM-1, and the selectin receptors in IRI. However, based on experimental studies in animal models, even though renal IRI appears to be ICAM-1 mediated, the role of the CD11/CD18 pathway appears to be minimal. In addition, the available evidence does not support the concept that L-selectin has significant involvement in renal IRI. In this review, the data and controversies regarding the role of leukocytes and leukocyte adhesion molecules in renal IRI are discussed.