The role of TGF-β1 gene polymorphisms in the development of post-transplant complications

Abstract

Transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1) is an immunosuppressive and profibrogenic cytokine capable of influencing the development of graft rejection and graft fibrosis in solid organ recipients. The TGF-β gene has a significant polymorphism that may cause individual protein expression levels and be associated with post-organ transplant complications. It is believed that three TGFB1 polymorphic variants (rs1800469, rs1800470 and rs1800471) may be associated with the development of graft rejection, graft fibrosis and chronic dysfunction of a heart, liver or kidney transplant. A review of current literature presents the results of studies on the relationship between TGF-β1 gene polymorphisms and post-transplant complications in solid organ recipients. The findings of various studies of TGF-β1 gene polymorphism in solid organ recipients are not always unambiguous, and their results are often difficult to generalize even with the help of meta-analysis. Samples included in studies vary in terms of ethnicity, gender, age, and underlying medical conditions, while results are highly dependent on sample structure or latent relatedness. Currently available data suggest that TGFB1 polymorphism may determine a predisposition to the development of graft rejection, graft fibrosis and graft dysfunction in solid organ recipients, but this is not conclusive and requires further, larger studies.