Genetic polymorphisms in the immune response: A focus on kidney transplantation

• In transplantation, a complex network of cytokines contributes to the evolution of graft function and its long-term survival.
• Cytokine levels and signaling effects can be affected by genetic polymorphisms.
• This review highlights the most promising loci among the vast body of literature.
• The most convincing reports of genetic associations with outcomes in renal transplantation are discussed.

The modulation of the immune system following solid organ transplantation has made considerable progress with new immunosuppressive regimens and has considerably improved rejections rates. The improvement in long-term allograft survival is, however, modest. A complex network of cytokines, chemokines, adhesion, activation and co-stimulatory molecules are the frontline contributors to allograft rejection, which in turn determines the evolution of graft function and its long-term survival. Polymorphisms in these genes influence protein levels and presumably their signaling effects. In this review, we present a relevant panel of candidate genes related to the immune system in the context of solid organ transplantation; we discuss the most convincing reports of genetic associations with outcomes in renal transplantation and highlight the most promising loci among the vast body of literature.