Immunomodulation and Mechanism of Transplantation Immune Tolerance Induced by Glucocorticoids

Glucocorticoids (GCs) are potent steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and immunosuppressants, which are widely used in severe infection, shock, autoimmune diseases, organ transplantation and other diseases. GCs have played a fundamental role in the field of organ transplantation, including induction of immune tolerance, maintenance of im- munosuppression and therapy for graft rejection. They act on various cells, and regulate metabolism, cell growth and differentiation. The modulatory mechanisms of GCs are very complex. Through the classic cytoplasmic glucocorticoid receptor (GCR) signaling pathway, it can regulate the transcription of DNA. And, it also has rapid effects on immunity via non-genomic mechanisms. This review summarized the current progresses of immunomodulation and mechanisms of glucocorticoids on the transplantation immune tolerance.