Innate immune cells in transplantation

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To examine the recent literature on the role of innate cells in immunity to transplanted tissue. It specifically addresses the impact of monocytes/macrophages, neutrophils, natural killer cells, and platelets. RECENT FINDINGS: Current research indicates that innate immunity plays a dual role in response to transplanted tissue with the ability to either facilitate rejection or promote tolerance. Intriguingly, some of these cells are even capable of reacting to allogeneic cells, a feature usually only attributed to cells of the adaptive immune system. SUMMARY: This review highlights the new therapeutic targets in the innate immune system that may be useful in the treatment of transplant recipients. It also emphasizes the need to use caution in exploring these new therapeutics.