Fate of MHC-Matched Corneal Allografts in Th1-Deficient Hosts

Abstract

IFN-gamma is not necessary for the rejection of MHC-mismatched corneal grafts. However, IFN-gamma and Th1 immune mechanisms are necessary for the rejection of MHC-matched corneal allografts that confront the host with foreign minor histocompatibility antigens. The immune response in atopic patients, as in IFN-gamma KO mice, is characterized by cross-regulation of Th1 cytokines, such as IFN-gamma. The present results indicate that MHC matching dramatically reduces the risk of corneal graft rejection when IFN-gamma is depressed or absent. Thus, MHC matching may reduce the risk of corneal graft rejection in patients with atopic keratoconus.