Changes in HLA-G Expression by Leucocyte Subsets Following Renal Transplantation and the Effect of Immunosuppressive Drugs on Leucocyte HLA-G Expression in Vitro

Background HLA-G is an immunosuppressive molecule with a potential role in allograft acceptance. Methods Expression of HLA-G on leucocyte subpopulations was studied in a group of 21 renal transplant patients immediately prior to and 2 month post-transplantation. Results Significant increases in proportions of total HLA-G+CD4+ T cells were seen (0.5+/-0.1% to 7.9+/-3.2%; p