Belatacept Safer than calcineurin inhibitors in Kidney Transplantation patients, reveals research
Belatacept has emerged as a promising alternative to calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) in kidney transplantation, offering a potentially safer immunosuppressive approach with reduced long-term complications. CNIs, while effective in preventing graft rejection, are consistently linked to nephrotoxicity and increased cancer risk, particularly non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC). In a recent narrative review, researchers explored the mechanistic and clinical evidence surrounding belatacept, with a particular focus on skin cancer incidence in kidney transplant recipients.
The analysis highlights that belatacept, a selective co-stimulation blocker targeting the CD28-CD80/86 pathway, avoids the chronic nephrotoxic effects associated with CNIs. This not only helps preserve long-term graft function but also improves patient outcomes by minimizing one of the most common causes of late graft failure. Importantly, the review underscores that CNI exposure contributes to DNA damage, impaired DNA repair, and oncogenic viral reactivation, all of which elevate cancer risk, especially for skin malignancies in immunosuppressed patients.
Disclaimer: This website is primarily for healthcare professionals. The content here does not replace medical advice and should not be used as medical, diagnostic, endorsement, treatment, or prescription advice. Medical science evolves rapidly, and we strive to keep our information current. If you find any discrepancies, please contact us at corrections@medicaldialogues.in. Read our Correction Policy here. Nothing here should be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not endorse any healthcare advice that contradicts a physician's guidance. Use of this site is subject to our Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Advertisement Policy. For more details, read our Full Disclaimer here.
NOTE: Join us in combating medical misinformation. If you encounter a questionable health, medical, or medical education claim, email us at factcheck@medicaldialogues.in for evaluation.