Tracking b cell kinetics in early immune recovery stage of lung transplantation cases by monitorizing krec (kappa deleting recombination excision circle) levels

Tracking the immune system progression in lung transplantation is crucial for management of the treatment, and it's effect on survival and success of transplantation. In this study, we aimed to evaluate humoral immune system response by measuring KREC gene segment copy numbers in B cells by RT-PCR (Real Time Polymerase Chain Reaction).We compared them with some clinical patient findings at three time points before and after transplantation. Cytokines that are known to function in immune system mechanisms and affect the transplantation success is measured by flow cytometry with bead based array. Cytokine levels between and control groups; and with KREC levels were compared. Although no significant alteration is observed in KREC levels between pre- and post-operation (p=0,594; p=0,657), median values indicate that the highest increase rate in KREC levels (72642- 126849; 85-170) are observedon 7th day of transplantation. Positive correlation between KREC and CD40L was shown in patient group on 24 hours post-operation (p=0,030). Even though this study was performed with a limited number of patients, it reveals that B lymphocyte numbers are found elevated after lung transplantation; and it is possible to detect a prognostic algorithm by tracking B cell kinetics after post-transplantation period for long term follow up.