CTLA-4 Promoter Methylation Profile in CD8+ T Cells of Renal Transplant Recipients: A Pilot Study

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OBJECTIVES: Regulation of immune responses in renal transplant recipients is complex, and the CTLA -4 gene plays a crucial role in maintaining immune tolerance. Methylation of CpG regions in the CTLA -4 promoter may affect its expression, potentially influencing transplant outcomes. This pilot study investigated the relationship between CTLA -4 promoter methylation and gene expression in CD8 + T cells of renal transplant recipients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We analyzed the CTLA -4 promoter methylation profile in CD8 + T cells from 29 renal transplant recipients using bisulfite sequencing. The methylation status of specific CpG regions was correlated with CTLA -4 expression levels to assess any potential influence of methylation on gene regulation. RESULTS: Two patients with hemi -methylated CpG regions in the CTLA -4 promoter showed an increase in CTLA -4 expression. However, no overall correlation between methylation levels and gene expression was observed across the patient cohort. CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggested that immune responses and treatment outcomes may differ considerably between individuals. In addition, other epigenetic mechanisms may play a role in modulating CTLA -4 expression. These results highlight the complexity of immune regulation in renal transplant recipients and the need for further investigation into the epigenetic factors influencing transplant outcomes.