Este modelo novedoso para posterior trasplante ortotópico extremidad en el ratón, la aplicación de una técnica de manguito no de sutura para la anastomosis super-microvascular, proporciona una herramienta poderosa para la investigación inmunológica in vivo mecanicista relacionada con alotrasplante compuesto vascularizado (VCA).
In vivo animal model systems, and in particular mouse models, have evolved into powerful and versatile scientific tools indispensable to basic and translational research in the field of transplantation medicine. A vast array of reagents is available exclusively in this setting, including mono- and polyclonal antibodies for both diagnostic and interventional applications. In addition, a vast number of genotyped, inbred, transgenic, and knock out strains allow detailed investigation of the individual contributions of humoral and cellular components to the complex interplay of an immune response and make the mouse the gold standard for immunological research.
Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation (VCA) delineates a novel field of transplantation using allografts to replace “like with like” in patients suffering traumatic or congenital tissue loss. This surgical methodological protocol shows the use of a non-suture cuff technique for super-microvascular anastomosis in an orthotopic mouse hind limb transplantation model. The model specifically allows for comparison between established paradigms in solid organ transplantation with a novel form of transplants consisting of various different tissue components. Uniquely, this model allows for the transplantation of a viable vascularized bone marrow compartment and niche that have the potential to exert a beneficial effect on the balance of immune acceptance and rejection. This technique provides a tool to investigate alloantigen recognition and allograft rejection and acceptance, as well as enables the pursuit of functional nerve regeneration studies to further advance this novel field of transplantation.
The late nineties heralded the pioneering days of reconstructive transplantation with the first successful hand transplant performed in France in 1998. Since then, the use of VCAs for reconstruction of devastating tissue defects has been successfully employed in a wide spectrum of patients. To date, the world counts 76 recipients of 112 upper extremities as well as 31 faces 1-3. In addition, several other types of VCAs such as abdominal wall 4, larynx 5, trachea 6, vascularized joints 7, and even penis 8 have been performed. Furthermore, the live birth of a baby was recently reported after uterus transplantation 9. This growing world experience is indicative for how reconstructive transplantation has become a valid therapeutic option for patients suffering of significant functional tissue defects not amendable to conventional reconstructive and restorative surgery and treatment.
While the idea of replacing “like with like” sparked clinical enthusiasm, initial skepticism still prevails with regards to side effects of conventional high-dose immunosuppression required to maintain allografts and their function 10,11. However, as shown by seminal work of Lee et al., these composite grafts are less likely to reject than its individual components, and furthermore, some of the tissue components such as the vascularized bone compartment have fueled optimism as they might exert unique immunological effects onto the balance of immune acceptance and rejection 12.
Our group pioneered several microsurgical animal models for solid organ transplantation, as well as vascularized composite allotransplantation 13-19. Here we describe a novel surgical procedure using a non-suture cuff technique to perform super micro-vascular anastomosis in an orthotopic mouse hind limb transplantation model. This transplant model provides a useful tool for investigating immune acceptance and rejection mechanisms, as well as the role of individual tissue components, such as the vascularized bone marrow compartment, towards tolerance induction in the immunologically versatile setting of the mouse species. Additionally, the orthotopic placement of the limb opens the possibilities for nerve regeneration and functional outcome studies, which are critically important to the setting of VCA.
Vascularizado compuesto alotrasplante, tales como las extremidades superiores y el trasplante de cara para la reconstrucción de defectos de tejidos devastadores, se ha desarrollado como una opción válida de tratamiento para los pacientes que no modificables a procesos de reconstrucción convencionales. Los avances técnicos en el campo de la microcirugía reconstructiva, así como una vasta experiencia con potente inmunosupresor y terapias inmunomoduladoras en el trasplante de órganos sólidos, ahora permite la supe…
The authors have nothing to disclose.
Este trabajo fue apoyado por el Ejército, la Marina, el NIH, la Fuerza Aérea, VA y Asuntos de la Salud para apoyar el esfuerzo AFIRM II, en virtud de la adjudicación núm W81XWH-13-2-0053. El Ejército de los EE.UU. de Investigación Médica Adquisición Actividad, 820 Chandler Street, Fort Detrick MD 21702 a 5014 es la oficina de adquisición y administración de adjudicación. Las opiniones, interpretaciones, conclusiones y recomendaciones son las del autor y no necesariamente son compartidas por el Departamento de Defensa.
Los autores desean agradecer a Jessica Izzi, DVM, Caroline Garrett, DVM y Julie Watson, DVM, por su excelente apoyo veterinario durante este estudio.
Suture, 6-0 Nylon | MWI | 31849 | |
Suture, 6-0 Polysorb | MWI | 72667 | |
Suture, 10-0 Nylon | Aero Surgical | TK-107038 | |
Polyimide Tubing, Size 25 | Vention Medical | 141-0023 | |
Polyimide Tubing, Size 27 | Vention Medical | 141-0015 | |
Microvascular Clamps (Single) | Synovis | 00396 | |
Microvascular Clamps (Double) | Synovis | 00414 | |
Micro-Scissors | Synovis | SAS-18 | |
Micro-Forceps | Synovis | FRS-15 RM-8 | |
Micro-Dilators | Synovis | FRS-15 RM-8d.1 | |
Micro-Needledriver | Synovis | C-14 | |
Micro-Clamp Applicator | Synovis | CAF-4 | |
Micro-Flushing Needle | Hamilton | N/A | 10MM, 30°, 33G |
Lactated Ringers Solution | Fisher Scientific | NC9968051 | |
Buprenorphine | N/A | N/A | DEA Number required; Obtained from hosptial pharmacy. |
Enrofloxacin; Baytril | Bayer Health Care | 186599 | |
Heparin | N/A | N/A | Obtained from hosptial pharmacy |