Changes in regulatory T cells and their gene expression in acute rejection associated with renal transplantation in rats

Objective To observe the expression of CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells in peripheral blood (Treg) and their gene expression (Foxp3, ABCC4, and eIF6) in acute rejection (AR) associated with renal transplantation in rats, in order to clarify their role in immune rejection. Methods Liver and kidney function was monitored in rats with AR and those with non-acute rejection (n-AR). IL-2 and IFN-γ levels were detected by ELISA. CD4+, CD8+, and CD4+CD25+ cells (Treg) in fresh blood were detected by flow cytometry. The expression of Foxp3, ABCC4, and eIF6 was detected by fluorescent PCR. Results Compared with preoperative values, serum levels of creatinine and urea nitrogen, plasma levels of IFN-γ and IL-2, and the levels of CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+ cells were significantly increased in the AR group (P<0.05). The percentage of CD4+CD25+ Treg cells was significantly lower, the expression of Foxp3 was significantly decreased, and the expression of ABCC4 and eIF6 was significantly increased in the AR group compared with the n-AR group (P<0.05). Conclusion CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells participate in immune rejection associated with renal transplantation, and detecting the expression of Foxp3, ABCC4, and eIF6 in CD4+CD25+ Treg cells can assist in the diagnosis of AR. Key words: Renal transplantion; Graft rejection; CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells; Foxp3; ABCC4; eIF6