The Relationship Between Interferon-γ Gene Polymorphism and Acute Kidney Allograft Rejection

Cytokine gene polymorphisms have been associated with modified gene expression and cytokine production. Gamma interferon (IFN-gamma) plays an important role in the pathogenesis of kidney transplant rejection. This study evaluated the association between IFN-gamma gene polymorphisms and the history of acute allograft rejection in 53 adult first-transplant recipients receiving cadaveric kidney grafts. They were followed up in a single centre until 2006, for a median time of 4 years after transplantation (1-22 years). IFN-gamma gene polymorphisms +874 T/A (rs2430561) were determined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). T/T high IFN-gamma genotype was found in 12, intermediate T/A in 29 and low A/A in 12 patients. Twenty-six acute kidney rejection episodes were evidenced in 20 patients, of which none occurred in the 12 patients with low IFN-gamma genotype A/A. Age, gender, number of HLA (human leukocyte antigen) mismatches, ABO blood groups, HLA, time after transplantation, creatinine clearance and immunosuppressive regimens were excluded as confounding factors associated with IFN-gamma genotype distribution between rejectors and non-rejectors. IFN-gamma gene polymorphisms could be an important risk factor for acute kidney transplant rejection, whereas the low A/A IFN-gamma genotype could be protective against rejection.