[Biocompatibility testing and function of a pancreatic prosthesis consisting of viable pancreatic islets encapsulated...

The application of semipermeable membranes for immunoisolation of living pancreatic islets is an interesting alternative for treatment in diabetes mellitus patients. The aim of this work was in vivo evaluation of biocompatibility of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) macrocapsules and of the polyethylene foil itself as well. To establish the value of the artificial prosthesis made from settled with viable pancreatic islets (PVA) macrocapsules the glucose plasma levels were analyzed versus time after implantation into peritoneal cavity of rats with alloxane-induced diabetes. The results of the experiment revealed the progressive disadvantageous alterations of PVA hydrogel membrane resulting in decrease of permeability of albumin and glucose. The histologic examination of the cellular enzyme activities to estimate the intensity of inflammation in surrounding tissues showed changes typical or chronic proliferative inflammation. The correct function of artificial prosthesis of the pancreas manifested in normalization glucose plasma level has been observed for from 14 to 42 days after implantation.