Primary Graft Dysfunction in Lung Transplantation: The Role of CD26/Dipeptidylpeptidase IV and Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide

Abstract

Perfusion with an inhibitor of CD26/DPP IV enzymatic activity significantly reduced the incidence and severity of pulmonary primary graft dysfunction and enabled recovery after extended ischemia. This is the first report that CD26/DPPIV inhibitor treatment increases local pulmonary VIP levels, which correlate with preserved ventilatory function and pulmonary structural integrity.