Basiliximab
SimulectRCSB PDB 3IU3 · 3D model
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A lab-made antibody that attaches to a docking site on activated immune cells, blocking the signal that would otherwise tell those cells to attack a transplanted organ.
How it works
When the body detects a transplanted organ as foreign, certain immune cells called T-cells get switched on and multiply to attack it, using a chemical signal called IL-2 as the trigger. Basiliximab sits on the docking site for that signal so IL-2 can't get through, keeping those T-cells from ramping up their attack. It's given alongside other anti-rejection medicines, not by itself.
What it’s used for
Used to help prevent the body from rejecting a newly transplanted kidney, given together with other standard anti-rejection drugs. It is not approved for transplants of other organs.
- Mechanism
- IL-2 receptor (CD25) antagonist (mAb)
- Drug class
- Monoclonal antibody
- Therapeutic area
- Transplant Immunology