Our Research
Pediatric Outcomes in Transplant: PersOnaliSing Immunosuppression to ImproVe Efficacy (POSITIVE Study): The Collaboration and Design of a National Transplant Precision Medicine Program
Despite age-related differences in biology, physiology, and behavior, transplant immunosuppression is not tailored by age. This likely contributes to high graft failure and posttransplant complications. The POSITIVE study aims to personalize posttransplant immunosuppression in children and young adults.
An Integrated Clinical and Genetic Prediction Model for Tacrolimus Levels in Pediatric Solid Organ Transplant Recipients
There are challenges in achieving and maintaining therapeutic tacrolimus levels after solid organ transplantation (SOT). This genome-wide-association study (GWAS) generated an integrated clinical and genetic prediction model for tacrolimus levels in pediatric SOT.
Age and CYP3A5 genotype affect tacrolimus dosing requirements after transplant in pediatric heart recipients
Large variation exists in pharmacokinetics during the post-transplant period of tacrolimus, one of the commonly used immunosuppressive drugs for pediatric heart transplants. This study examined the relationship between age and CYP3A5 and ABCB1 genotype and Pediatric Risk of Mortality (PRISM) score. Younger age and CYP3A5 expressor genotype were independently associated with higher dosing requirements for lower tacrolimus concentration/dose ratios.
A randomized clinical trial of age and genotype-guided tacrolimus dosing after pediatric solid organ transplantation
This randomized, semi-blinded, 30-day pilot trial examined genotype-guided dosing in pediatric patients listed for solid organ transplant between 2012 and 2016. This trial found that CYP3A5 genotype-guided dosing stratified by age resulted in earlier attainment of therapeutic tacrolimus concentrations and fewer out-of-range concentrations.
Return of genetic and genomic research findings: Experience of a pediatric biorepository
The Transplant Centre Biobank and The Heart Centre Biobank share the same process for return of results. A Return of Results Committee (RRR) reviews clinically actionable research findings to be returned to the physician or disclosed directly to the participant through a research genetic counselor. This paper found that return was faster if disclosed directly to the participant by a research genetic counselor, with high acceptability amongst participants for receiving the findings, for referral to clinical genetics, and for clinical validation of research findings.
Canadian Donation and Transplantation Research Program
The Canadian Donation and Transplantation Research Program (CDTRP, previously CNTRP) is a national research network designed to increase organ and tissue donation in Canada and enhance the survival and quality of life of Canadians who receive transplants.
