British Columbia has been selected as the test bed for a potentially game-changing genomics project to improve kidney transplant outcomes across Canada in partnership with Canadian Blood Services.
This project, funded by Genome British Columbia, Genome Canada, Michael Smith Health Research BC, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute and others, seeks to significantly reduce organ rejection rates, improve patient outcomes and save millions of dollars in healthcare costs.
The project will implement a world-first epitope-based matching program for kidney transplants. Epitopes are segments of a crucial protein called Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA), which the body uses to distinguish itself from foreign entities.
When the immune system detects foreign HLA or epitopes, such as those from a donor organ, it launches an attack. This immune response can be particularly dangerous for organ transplant patients, as it may lead to organ rejection, organ failure, the need for another transplant and potentially death.
By focusing on epitope matching, researchers hope to significantly reduce the risk of organ rejection, a major complication that can lead to graft failure and the need for lifelong immunosuppressive therapy.
“Our research is introducing a new form of precision medicine for transplant patients that could ultimately reduce the need for subsequent organ transplants,” says Dr. Paul Keown, the lead researcher for the BC based project.
“By reducing the risk of immune response through epitope-matching, we can give organ transplant patients the best chance at long-standing organ health with fewer complications.”
Leave a Reply