Abstract
Background: Galactosyl transferase gene knock-out (GalTKO) swine offer a unique tool to evaluate the role of the Gal antigen in xenogenic lung hyperacute rejection. Methods: We perfused GalTKO miniature swine lungs with human blood. Results were compared with those from previous studies using wild-type and human decay-accelerating factor-transgenic (hDAF+/+) pig lungs. Results: GalTKO lungs survived 132 ± 52 min compared to 10 ± 9 min for wild-type lungs (P = 0.001) and 45 ± 60 min for hDAF+/+ lungs (P = 0.18). GalTKO lungs displayed stable physiologic flow and pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) until shortly before graft demise, similar to autologous perfusion, and unlike wild-type or hDAF+/+ lungs. Early (15 and 60 min) complement (C3a) and platelet activation and intrapulmonary platelet deposition were significantly diminished in GalTKO lungs relative to wild-type or hDAF+/+ lungs. However, GalTKO lungs adsorbed cytotoxic anti-non-Gal antibody and elaborated high levels of thrombin; their demise was associated with increased PVR, capillary congestion, intravascular thrombi and strong CD41 deposition not seen at earlier time points. Conclusions: In summary, GalTKO lungs are substantially protected from injury but, in addition to anti-non-Gal antibody and complement, platelet adhesion and non-physiologic intravascular coagulation contribute to Gal-independent lung injury mechanisms.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 94-107 |
Number of pages | 14 |
Journal | Xenotransplantation |
Volume | 18 |
Issue number | 2 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 2011 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Xenotransplantation
- alphaGal
- antibodies
- ex vivo lung perfusion
- genetically engineered
- hyperacute rejection
- lung
- swine
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Immunology
- Transplantation