Role of citrulline in rejection monitoring after bowel transplantation

Citrulline metabolism is primarily regulated by the small intestinal mucosa (synthesis) and kidney (catabolism). This review first analyzes knowledge on plasma citrulline as a marker of status of the small bowel mucosa and kidneys. It then considers data on citrulline as a marker of graft mucosal status in intestinal transplantation recipients, who may develop both intestinal and renal damage.