Granzyme B producing B-cells in renal transplant patients

摘要

Abstract Objectives A separate subset of Granzyme B (GrB) producing B-cells regulating T-cell mediated immunity has been identified. In the present study, we investigated the role of GrB + B-cells in renal transplant patients (RTX). Methods 12 healthy controls (HC) and 26 RTX patients were enrolled. In addition, 19 healthy volunteers treated with cyclosporine A (CsA) were enrolled. GrB + B-cells were determined via flow cytometry. Results RTX Patients showed a diminished fraction of GrB + B-cells as compared to HC. CsA treatment of healthy volunteers had no impact on the development of GrB + B-cells. RTX patients with a history of allograft rejection showed an increased frequency of GrB + B-cells. RTX patients with at least one episode of CMV viremia tended to have lower GrB + B-cells as compared to patients without viremic episodes. Conclusion We demonstrate that treatment with CsA does not impair the development of GrB + B-cells. GrB + B-cells may have a dual role in renal transplantation as regulatory cells to maintain allospecific tolerance and as effector cells enhancing viral control. Highlights ? GrB + B-cells are diminished in renal transplant patients. ? Treatment with calcineurin-inhibitors does not necessarily hamper the development of GrB + B-cells. ? GrB + B-cells may have a dual role in allospecific immune regulation and anti-viral immunity.