Xenoimplantation using a diffusion chamber with a B-cell line (MIN6) as a bioartificial endocrine pancreas (Bio-AEP)

This experiment was designed to investigate whether MIN6-cells, which are derived from transgenic mouse insulinoma cells, could be a useful tool for transplantation. An implantable diffusion chamber for a bioartificial endocrine pancreas (Bio-AEP) was constructed by placing a pancreatic B-cell line (MIN6) in a mixed matrix in the center of a ring holder sandwiched between two nuclepore membranes (pore size 0.2 microns), which were held in place by a silicon seal. Nine streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats were each implanted with the diffusion chamber containing mouse insulinoma cells (xenograft-implantation) as a Bio-AEP, but without any immunosuppressant. In three of the STZ-diabetic rats with a Bio-AEP, a return to normoglycemia was observed up to 20 week after implantation (good control). Four of the nine STZ-diabetic rats, which had received diffusion chambers with MIN6, also showed a return to normoglycemia for up to 10 wk (fair control). In two of the rats, blood glucose levels showed poor control. The results indicate that MIN6 cells should be useful for the implantation of xenographic cells in diabetic animals.