Abstract
Kv1.3-channels are critically involved in activation and function of effector memory T cells. Blocking Kv1.3-channels was investigated for its effect on skin rejection in a rat limb-transplantation-model. Animals received the Kv1.3-blocker correolide C systemically or locally as intra-graft-treatment in combination with tacrolimus. Systemic (intraperitoneal) administration of correolide C resulted in slight, but significant prolongation of allograft survival compared with untreated and placebo treated controls. In 4/6 correolide C treated animals, histology showed an intact epidermis and a mild infiltrate by day 10. High correolide C plasma trough levels correlated with prolonged allograft survival. A decrease in CD4+ and CD8+ effector memory T cells was observed in allograft skin, peripheral blood and the spleen on day 5. When applied subcutaneously in combination with systemic tacrolimus (30 days+/-anti-lymphocyte serum) detectable, but insignificant prolongation of graft survival was achieved. 2/5 animals showed an intact epidermis and a mild infiltrate until day 45. Tapering systemic tacrolimus and weaning on day 50 resulted in rejection by day 55, regardless of local correolide C treatment. Subcutaneous injection did not lead to systemic plasma levels. The Kv1.3-channel is a potential drug target worth exploring in more detail for immunosuppression in vascularized composite allotransplantation.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 552-561 |
Number of pages | 10 |
Journal | Transplant International |
Volume | 26 |
Issue number | 5 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - May 2013 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Correolide C
- Kv1.3 channel blocker
- effector memory T cells
- skin rejection
- targeted therapy
- vascularized composite allotransplantation
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Transplantation