FK506 (tacrolimus), a novel immunosuppressant in organ transplantation: clinical, biomedical, and analytical aspects.

The macrolide immunosuppressant FK506 (tacrolimus) is a powerful and selective anti-T-lymphocyte agent that was discovered in 1984. This agent, isolated from the fungus Streptomyces tsukubaensis, has a mechanism of action similar to that of cyclosporine. Experimental data were first published in 1987, and clinical trials were started 2 years later in Pittsburgh. The drug has a potent hepatotrophic effect, which could explain its success in liver transplantation. Particularly encouraging results were obtained in liver allograft recipients, suggesting a lower risk/benefit ratio than with other immunosuppressants. However, recent data show that the drug is not devoid of toxicity (mainly nephrotoxicity), which should the percent the need for careful blood monitoring. Several methods of analysis have been described, some satisfactory, others inadequate for routine monitoring. There is still a lack of specific methods to determine routinely the parent drug concentrations in biological fluids for clinical pharmacokinetics purposes. Despite greater experience in therapeutic drug monitoring, the correlation between FK506 concentrations and efficacy or toxicity is still unclear. More investigations are required to better understand and determine the appropriate use of FK506 in organ transplantation and treating autoimmune diseases.