Background. Our purpose is to examine levels of Fas mRNA expression in bloo
d during human corneal transplant rejection.
Methods. Fas mRNA expression was detected by reverse transcription-PCR in b
lood from normal controls, corneal recipients at the time of transplantatio
n and during episodes of rejection.
Results. Samples taken at the time of a corneal rejection episode showed Fa
s mRNA levels were significantly lower in these patients than either normal
controls (P=0.017) or corneal transplant recipients not undergoing graft r
ejection (P=0.00052). Serial samples from five patients who suffered an epi
sode of rejection showed that the level of Fas mRNA is reduced during the r
ejection episode and subsequently recovers.
Conclusions, These results indicate low levels of Fas mRNA in blood may hav
e a role in corneal transplant rejection.