Increased levels of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells expressing CCR1 in patients developing allograft dysfunction; a cohort study

Abstract Background Leukocyte infiltration into the graft has pivotal effects on kidney transplantation outcome. The present study sought to determine whether the expression of sequential chemokine receptors on CD4 + and CD8 + T cells in human renal allograft can predict clinical episodes. Methods Blood samples from 52 consecutive renal transplant patients were evaluated at the time of transplantation and at three times (2, 90 and 180 days) after transplantation to analyze the expression of CCR1 and CXCR3 on CD4 + and CD8 + T cells by flowcytometry. A total of 30 biopsies, including protocol biopsy (n = 24) and cause biopsy (n = 6), were investigated according to the Banff criteria. Results The mean percentage of CD4 + and CD8 + T cells expressing CCR1 was significantly increased in patients with allograft dysfunction (n = 25) (p = 0.006, p = 0.004). The mean fluorescence intensity of CXCR3 on CD4 + and CD8 + T cells were found to be significantly higher in graft dysfunction than that in well-functioning grafts. (p  +  CCR1 + and CD8 +  CCR1 + (p  + expressing CXCR3 leads to a lower risk of graft dysfunction (OR = 0.37), while an increase in CD8 + expressing CCR1 results in a higher risk of graft dysfunction (OR = 3.66). Conclusion During renal transplantation, CD4 + and CD8 + T cells expressing CCR1 were increased in patients who developed graft dysfunction. These findings may prospectively predict allograft dysfunction, and help elucidate the underlying pathogenic mechanisms.