Stem Cell Factor, Interleukin-16, and Interleukin-2 Receptor Alpha are Predictive Biomarkers for Delayed and Slow Graft Function

Abstract

Introduction Delayed graft function (DGF) and slow graft function (SGF) due to ischemic and reperfusion injury (IRI) are common complications of deceased donor kidney transplantation. We tested whether a panel of serum and urine cytokines represent early biomarkers for DGF and SGF. Methods We collected serum and urine samples from 61 patients 48 hours posttransplantation and used a multiplex enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique to measure levels of 23 cytokines. Fourteen patients developed poor graft function (PGF), with 6 having DGF and 8 with SGF. Results Area under receiver operation characteristics curve (AUC) demonstrated the following: serum levels of SCF (0.88) and interleukin (IL) 16 (0.74). Conclusions This study showed that a select panel of cytokines measured early post kidney transplantation may predict poor graft function.