Reperfusion-induced gene expression profiles in rat lung transplantation

Ischemia-Reperfusion (I/R) injury after lung transplantation (LTx) can lead to significant morbidity and mortality in recipients. In an attempt to improve our understanding of molecular mechanisms of I/R injury, we examined the changes in gene expression levels in a rat lung transplant model using oligonucleotide microarrays. Lewis rat lung grafts were stored for 6 or 24 h followed by transplantation and reperfusion for 2 h. Lung tissues were taken before and after flushing the grafts, before implantation, and after 2 h of reperfusion. RNA samples were examined with Affymetrix rat microarray chips and RT-PCR was performed to validate significant changes in gene expression. Microarray analysis showed 404 genes that were up-regulated more than 2-fold after reperfusion compared to cold ischemic lungs, and 187 genes that were down-regulated. Using RT-PCR, we confirmed the response pattern of several specific gene transcripts from the microarray analysis. Among these, up-regulation in transcripts of transcription factors, adhesion molecules, pro-coagulant factors and pro-inflammatory cytokines were identified. The differential gene regulation during the I/R process can be considered as molecular signatures for the changes of cellular metabolism, functions and injury. Reperfusion-induced genes related to inflammatory response may contribute to graft dysfunction in LTx.