Transplant tolerant to a liver graft display a specific blood cell transcriptional pattern but results from six different studies were not consistent, raising the question of relevance for future clinical application. To resolve this, we sought to identify a common gene signature, specific functional and cellular components, and discriminating biomarkers for tolerance following liver transplantation. A meta-analysis of studies identified a robust gene signature involving CD4 T cell and B cell function. Experimental validation was performed on new tolerant samples and using a selection of the top-10 biomarkers. Beyond the confirmation of T cell and B-cell involvement, our data also indicated participation of other cell subsets in tolerance. Furthermore, we identified 12 new biomarkers. Thus, the use of the top10 biomarkers may provide a common and standardized tool towards personalized medicine for the monitoring of tolerant patients among liver transplant recipients. These data may contribute to a better understanding of tolerance maintenance mechanisms.

CITATION INFORMATION: Gu G, Hang H, Xia Q. Identification of a Stable Gene Signature of Transplant Tolerance to Liver Allograft by Meta-Analysis. Am J Transplant. 2017;17 (suppl 3).

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