Effect of ciclosporin on allogeneic hepatocyte transplantation: a morphological study

Hepatocyte transplantation (HT) is among the most frequently employed approaches in the treatment of liver disease. This work deals with the occurrence of rejection when allogeneic hepatocytes are transplanted into the spleens of rats. Two strains of rats were used: Lewis and F344. The recipients were divided into two groups, one of which received ciclosporin (Cic), while the other received no treatment. After HT, the spleens were removed periodically. The animals that did not receive Cic suffered such intense rejection that 7 days after HT no hepatocytes could be identified in the splenic pulp. On the other hand, hepatocytes could be observed throughout the entire study in the spleens of rats treated with Cic. We conclude that HT is followed by intense rejection, which can be avoided by the administration of Cic.