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Amniotic membrane diffusion chambers: a new possibility for pancreatic islet transplantation
A Maldonato1, A Lucisano, E Maniccia
1Diabetes Unit, Cl. Medica 2, La Sapienza University, Roma.
Life Support Systems : the Journal of the European Society for Artificial Organs
|January 1, 1985
Summary
Human amniotic membrane shows promise for islet transplantation. This natural material effectively encloses transplanted islets, preventing immune rejection and offering superior diffusion compared to artificial membranes.
Area of Science:
- Regenerative Medicine
- Transplantation Biology
- Biomaterials Science
Background:
- Artificial diffusion chambers used for islet transplantation often fail long-term due to host foreign-body reactions.
- Protecting implanted islet tissue from immune rejection is crucial for successful transplantation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the human amniotic membrane as a novel biomaterial for enclosing transplanted islets of Langerhans.
- To assess the biocompatibility and diffusion characteristics of amniotic membrane chambers for islet encapsulation.
Main Methods:
- Bag-shaped chambers were constructed using human amniotic membranes.
- Diffusion of 125I-Insulin out of and D-glucose into the chambers was measured.
- Lymphocyte diffusion across the amniotic membrane was assessed.
Main Results:
- Human amniotic membrane chambers demonstrated superior diffusion properties compared to artificial membranes.
- 50% diffusion was achieved for 125I-Insulin at 42 minutes and D-glucose at 11 minutes.
- No lymphocyte diffusion into the amniotic membrane chambers was observed.
Conclusions:
- The human amniotic membrane exhibits favorable diffusion characteristics and biocompatibility for islet encapsulation.
- It effectively prevents lymphocyte infiltration, a key factor in immune rejection.
- The human amniotic membrane is proposed as a suitable material for future islet tissue transplantation research.