Natural killer cells play divergent roles in shaping the outcome of hepatitis C virus recurrence following liver transplantation

Abstract

Overall, the study is clinically relevant and well described, was conducted well, and provides evidence that a genetic component contributes to NK cell activity in the setting of LT for chronic HCV. The data will be useful in contributing to future strategies that will ensure optimum use of limited donor organs. This study supports a model in which activation of NK cells in this setting has both beneficial and detrimental influences on HCV recurrence in HCV-infected LT recipients, that is, protection versus injury of the allograft. Confirmation of these results in larger natural history studies is warranted. © 2009 American Association for the Study of Diseases.