Desensitization of Renal Transplant Candidates

Pre-formed HLA antibodies prevent renal transplantation because of the risk of hyperacute
rejection. We propose a prospective study evaluating the efficacy of Enteric Coated
Mycophenolate Sodium (Myfortic) in decreasing the titers of anti-HLA alloantibodies in
patients awaiting kidney transplantation. Myfortic is an immunosuppressant that inhibits the
proliferation of B and T cells by blocking the enzyme inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase. We
will attempt to determine whether a 6-week course of Myfortic adequately decreases the
antibody reactivity to a level compatible with transplantation.

Inclusion Criteria:

- Patients on the deceased donor kidney transplant waiting list with panel reactive
antibodies >50% and living donor waiting list patients who have a history of a
positive crossmatch (donor-specific antibodies) will be eligible for the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

- Any subjects not meeting the Inclusion Criteria

- Subjects unable to attend weekly clinic visits for six weeks

- Inability to tolerate Myfortic