[Evidence of a specific defect in effector cell formation following kidney and liver allotransplants in humans].

In 5 recipients of cadaver kidney allografts and 1 patient with an orthotopic liver transplant specific in vitro reactivity of blood lymphocytes against donor antigens was monitored by means of the unilateral MLC assay and an indirect cytotoxicity assay (using MLC activated recipient lymphocytes as effector cells in a 51Cr release assay). The liver patient and 3 of the kidney graft recipients developed a specific defect in the capability to generate cytotoxic effector cells in vitro. Proliferative reactivity against donor lymphocytes was retained in these patients.