Exploring the potential effect of paricalcitol on markers of inflammation in de novo renal transplant recipients.

Following a successful renal transplantation circulating markers of inflammation may remain elevated, and systemic inflammation is associated with worse clinical outcome in renal transplant recipients (RTRs). Vitamin D-receptor (VDR) activation is postulated to modulate inflammation and endothelial function. We aimed to explore if a synthetic vitamin D, paricalcitol, could influence systemic inflammation and immune activation in RTRs.

Early introduction of oral paricalcitol in renal transplant recipients. An open-label randomized study.

In stable renal transplant recipients with hyperparathyroidism, previous studies have indicated that vitamin D agonist treatment might have anti-proteinuric effects. Animal studies indicate possible anti-fibrotic and anti-inflammatory effects. Early introduction of paricalcitol in de novo renal transplant recipients might reduce proteinuria and prevent progressive allograft fibrosis.