How the immune response in transplantation affects targets for large and small drug molecules

Organ transplantation is the preferred treatment for many forms of end-stage organ failure.

• Immunosuppressive drugs used to prevent rejection can lead to serious side effects, including infection and malignancy.
• Current immunosuppressive strategies are not effective at preventing chronic rejection, which contributes to late graft loss.
• The review discusses fundamental concepts of solid-organ allograft rejection to identify potential new therapeutic targets.
• Future advancements in organ transplantation may rely on new therapies, particularly biologics that target immune pathways.
• Recent clinical trials and emerging therapies in transplantation are highlighted as potential avenues for improved outcomes.

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