The role of CXCR3 and its ligands in renal transplant outcome

Abstract

Chemokines and their corresponding receptors serve as pro-inflammatory and migratory signals for immune cells. CXCR3 and its corresponding ligands, CXCL9, CXCL10 and CXCL11, participate in the induction of immune responses against several foreign antigens. Numerous cells, including macrophages, NK cells and T lymphocytes, express CXCR3 and thus, expression of the receptor and its ligands can induce activity of these important immune cells against foreign antigens, including allogeneic grafts. Several parameters of the immune system participate in the induction and stimulation of powerful immune responses against allogeneic grafts. A thorough understanding of the parameters that regulate these responses can provide insights into new methods for immunotherapy during organ transplantation. The aim of this review is to address the most recent information regarding the roles played by CXCR3 and its corresponding ligands in the outcome of renal transplantation.