title: The role of basiliximab induction therapy in organ transplantation.
abstract: Basiliximab is a chimeric monoclonal antibody that selectively binds to the alpha-subunit (CD25) of IL-2 receptors on the surface of activated T lymphocytes, and is a highly effective prophylaxis agent against rejection in organ transplant recipients. Its pharmacokinetic profile is characterized by a biphasic and slow clearance with long terminal half-life and a volume of distribution within the central compartment and outside the circulatory system. Basiliximab induction demonstrated an excellent safety profile, with no increase in the incidence of malignancy, infections or death. It has also been used effectively in high-risk recipients, steroid-sparing and steroid-minimization protocols, and in post-transplant patients with renal dysfunction who would benefit from delayed introduction of calcineurin inhibitors. Basiliximab induction therapy given at days 0 and 4 after transplantation appears to be safe and cost-effective for immunoprophylaxis in solid organ transplant recipients, specifically in kidney and liver transplantation, when given in conjunction with dual or triple immunosuppressive therapy.
authors.affiliation: Thomas Jefferson University Hospital/Jefferson Medical College, Division of Transplantation, Department of Surgery, 605 College Building, 1025 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA.
authors.forename: Carlo B
authors.initials: CB
authors.lastname: Ramirez
authors.forename: Ignazio R
authors.initials: IR
authors.lastname: Marino
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000378:metabolism / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000077552:Basiliximab; D001666:Binding Sites, Antibody; D006084:Graft Rejection / Q000276:immunology / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D053645:Interleukin-2 Receptor alpha Subunit / Q000276:immunology / Q000378:metabolism; D011993:Recombinant Fusion Proteins / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000378:metabolism / Q000627:therapeutic use*
chemical_list: D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal; D053645:Interleukin-2 Receptor alpha Subunit; D011993:Recombinant Fusion Proteins; D000077552:Basiliximab