Transplantation

The overall aim of the research in our laboratory is to characterize theunderlying immune mechanisms of allograft rejection, in order to define novel therapeutic strategies that would promote graft survival. We have therefore developed experimental transplantation (Tx) models, with a particular interest in the biology of regulatory T cells and their role in the induction of Tx tolerance.       

Some degree of acute injury is unavoidable in the early phase of Tx following ischemia-reperfusion injury, in particular in cadaveric organ Tx. Clinically, it is associated with delayed graft function which promotes acute rejection and immunization. Moreover, tissue repair mechanisms occur with transcriptional reprogramming that may result in progressive interstitial fibrosis and chronic allograft dysfunction. We have established experimental models of acute kidney injury to identify potential therapeutic targets, in particular in innate immune and inflammatory pathways.

Following on our experimental findings and as a physician-scientist involved in the routine follow-up of kidney transplant recipients at our Transplantation Center, I had the unique opportunity to develop, in parallel, translational research aiming at defining the immune determinants that are associated with acute T-cell and antibody-mediated rejection, as well as patient and graft outcome after kidney transplantation. In this regard, we are actively participating and leading research projects in the framework of the Swiss Transplant Cohort Study (STCS).

1. Immune regulation and therapeutic potential of regulatory T cells
2. Novel therapeutic targets to prevent T-cell and antibody-mediated rejection after transplantation
3. Preventing acute kidney injury after kidney transplantation
4. Immune determinants of rejection and graft outcome after kidney transplantation