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Updated: Jul 1, 2026
09:48
Production of Transgenic Xenopus laevis by Restriction Enzyme Mediated Integration and Nuclear Transplantation
Published on: August 22, 2010
Genetic engineering as an approach to xenotransplantation
1Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USA.
World Journal of Surgery
|November 15, 1997
Summary
Hyperacute rejection (HAR) of pig-to-human organ xenografts is prevented by blocking antibodies or complement. However, delayed xenograft rejection (DXR) occurs days later, involving endothelial cell activation and immune cell infiltration.
Area of Science:
- Transplantation immunology
- Xenotransplantation research
Background:
- Hyperacute rejection (HAR) is a rapid rejection of discordant organ xenografts.
- HAR is mediated by pre-existing host xenoreactive natural antibodies (XNAs) and complement.
- Blocking XNAs or complement prevents HAR but leads to delayed xenograft rejection (DXR).
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore strategies for preventing delayed xenograft rejection (DXR).
- To address the challenges of xenograft survival beyond initial rejection phases.
Main Methods:
- Discussion of various potential approaches to prevent DXR.
- Focus on genetic engineering of endothelial cells (ECs) within the graft.
Main Results:
- DXR involves type II endothelial cell activation, including upregulation of proinflammatory genes.
- Infiltration of activated host monocytes and natural killer cells into the graft occurs.
- A complex cytokine profile is associated with DXR.
Conclusions:
- Preventing DXR is crucial for successful xenotransplantation.
- Genetic engineering of graft endothelial cells is a promising approach to mitigate DXR.
- Further strategies are needed to address T-cell mediated rejection post-DXR prevention.
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