Bystander injury of host lymphoid tissue during murine graft-verus-host disease is mediated by nitric oxide.

The suppressed lymphocyte proliferative responses characteristic of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) are due, in part, to production of nitric oxide (NO). In order to more fully elucidate the role of NO during GVHD, an NO synthesis inhibitor, aminoguanidine (AG), was administered to unirradiated (C57BL/6J X DBA/2J)F1 mice injected with 5 X 10(7) C57BL/6J splenocytes. Administration of AG resulTed in abrogation of the elevation in serum NO2- + NO3- levels characteristic of GVHD.

Phenotypic analysis of donor cells infiltrating the small intestinal epithelium and spleen during graft-versus-host disease.

One of the principal target organs during graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) is the intestinal epithelium, although the reasons for the preferential involvement of particular organs in this disease are not known. This study analyzed the subset distribution of donor and host lymphocytes in the small intestinal epithelium and the spleen during GvHD in a parent (C57BL/6J) into F1 (C57BL/6JxDBA2/J F1) model. While the donor cell population in the spleen consisted of B and T cells, the donor cell population in the intestine contained only T cells during the course of GvHD.

Comparison of FK506- and cyclosporine-based immunosuppression in primary orthotopic liver transplantation. A single center experience.

FK506 has been proven effective for prevention and treatment of liver allograft rejection. Herein, we compare FK506-based immunosuppression with an effective quadruple immunosuppressive regimen, including cyclosporine and antithymocyte globulin. The results of a single center participating in the European multicenter FK506 study are reported, including immunosuppressive efficacy as well as toxicity.

Mycobacterial infection after liver transplantation.

Tuberculosis occurred in 5 (1.2%) of 462 liver transplant recipients. De novo infection was assumed in 4 patients and a recurrent infection in 1.