Polymorphism of adhesion molecule CD31 and its role in acute graft-versus-host disease

Article Abstract:

A variation of the CD31 adhesion molecule between bone marrow donors and recipients may result in increased risk of graft-versus-host-disease (GVHD), an often fatal transplant complication. Adhesion molecules are found on the surface of vascular endothelial cells, an important contact point between donor tissue and host. Researchers identified the discrepancy in CD31 structures by sequencing DNA from 21 unrelated people. In a subsequent survey of 46 bone marrow recipients and their sibling donors, 71% of the recipients who developed GVHD were found to differ from their donor's CD31 type. Of the recipients without GVHD, only 22% had the mismatch. The CD31 discrepancy, or polymorphism, was associated with the binding of distinct anti-CD31 monoclonal antibodies to endothelial cells, demonstrating the immunologic significance of the finding. Matching the CD31 types of donors and recipients may reduce the risk of GVHD after bone marrow transplantation.

Analysis, Risk factors, Graft versus host reaction, Graft vs. host disease, Histocompatibility

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Optimizing treatment for chronic myeloid leukemia

Article Abstract:

Interferon alfa appears to be more effective in the treatment of chronic myelogenous leukemia than busulfan or hydroxyurea, which are the standard treatments. A 1997 study also found that interferon alfa was more effective when combined with cytarabine. However, interferon alfa has serious side effects and the two drugs combined might be even more toxic. Also, bone marrow transplantation has been used in many of these patients since the early 1980's, and many can be considered cured. However, some patients may not have a matching donor or may have other contraindications to a transplant.

Health aspects, Care and treatment, Editorial, Interferon alpha, Chronic myeloid leukemia

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Allogeneic bone marrow transplantation in Mevalonic Aciduria

Article Abstract:

Allogenic bone marrow transplantation offered to a 3-year old boy with mevalonic aciduria whose condition failed to improve with inflammatory treatment is discussed.

Case studies, Deficiency diseases

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