The loss of graft function after intraportal islet transplantation is likely multifactorial involving allogeneic rejection, recurrent autoimmunity, graft exhaustion due to a marginally implanted islet mass, immunosuppressant toxicity, and impaired β-cell regeneration. Because early markers of the loss of β-cell mass or function are lacking, monitoring of islet function remains a challenging issue. We have reported herein monitoring of membrane procoagulant microparticles (MPs) as markers of cell stress in the plasma of three recipients with various clinical histories. Early kinetics of C-peptide and MPs followed identical patterns during the first weeks after transplantation; a major increase probably reflected processes related to cell infusion and islet engraftment. Importantly in the case of rejection, MPs and C-peptide showed opposite patterns. A fall in C-peptide was associated with enhanced insulin needs. Our results suggested that a peak in MP levels might indicate rejection with prognotic value. Treatment of the loss of islet function by a new islet infusion or steroid therapy returned MP and C-peptide levels to their baselines with concomitant restoration of islet function. In the patient with suspected acute cellular rejection, MPs also appeared to be sensors of immunosuppressive steroid therapy.
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