Basiliximab
Basiliximab (trade name Simulect) is a chimeric mouse-human monoclonal antibody to the α chain (CD25) of the IL-2 receptor of T cells.  It is used to prevent rejection in organ transplantation, especially in kidney transplants.

Uses
Basiliximab is an immunosuppressant agent used to prevent immediate transplant rejection in people who are receiving kidney transplants, in combination with other agents. It has been reported that some cases of lichen planus have been successfully treated with basiliximab as an alternative therapy to cyclosporin. No short-term side effects have been reported.

Mechanism of action
Basiliximab competes with IL-2 to bind to the alpha chain subunit of the IL2 receptor on the surface of the activated T lymphocytes and thus prevents the receptor from signaling.  This prevents T cells from replicating and also from activating B cells, which are responsible for the production of antibodies, which would bind to the transplanted organ and stimulate an immune response against the transplant.

Chemistry
It is a chimeric CD25 monoclonal antibody of the IgG1 isotype.

History
It is a Novartis product and was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1998.

See also
Daclizumab


== References and notes ==