Transplantation Surgery

Our laboratory is investigating strategies to decrease the risk of rejection in transplant recipients. Foods containing soy protein have been shown to cause healthful physiological effects, including lower cholesterol, lower risk of cardiovascular disease, possible anticancer effects. Isoflavones which are contained in the soy protein fraction may contribute to some of the effects. In vitro studies suggest that the isoflavone genistein may have immunosuppressive effects. We have been examining the in vivo effects of soy and soy isoflavones on acute rejection and chronic rejection of organ transplants, and on autoimmune disease, as well as the mechanisms by which these effects occur. Ultimately, this could help determine whether dietary soy may be a useful adjunctive therapy in patients with organ transplants or autoimmune diseases.

Basic Research

1. Effects of high isoflavone soy diet on acute rejection of rat cardiac allografts.
2. Effects of high isoflavone soy diet on progression of chronic rejection of rat renal allografts: examination of gene expression and renal dysfunction.
3. Effects of high isoflavone soy diet on progession of lupus in mice.
4. Lymphocyte function in genistein and soy protein treated rats.

Clinical Research

1. Rapamune Outcomes Assessment Registry (ROAR) (Sponsored by Wyeth Ayerst)
2. Registry of Simulect® Use in Living Donor Renal Transplants (ReSULTS) (Sponsored by Novartis)
3. Ureteral Stents in renal transplantation: effects on urologic complications and costs
4. Serum sickness following Thymoglobulin administration for acute rejection

Funding

Effects of Dietary Soy Isoflavones on Rejection of Organ Transplants, Illinois Council on Food and Agricultural Research, $100,000
Registry of Simulect® Use in Living Donor Renal Transplants (ReSULTS), Novartis, $10,500 total cost (estimated)
Rapamune Outcomes Assessment Registry, Wyeth Ayerst, $12,000 total cost (estimated)