HLA-DRB1 mismatch-based identification of donor-derived cell free DNA (dd-cfDNA) as a marker of rejection in heart transplant recipients: A single-institution pilot study

Background Donor-derived cell-free DNA (dd-cfDNA) is considered a reliable marker of organ damage with potential applications in the follow-up of transplant recipients. Methods In this work we present an assay based on the donor-recipient HLA-mismatch (human leukocyte antigen) at the HLA-DRB1 locus to monitor rejection by quantifying the percentage of dd-cfDNA using a droplet digital PCR (polymerase chain reaction) technique. A panel of probes...