Endothelial cell protection in xenotransplantation: looking after a key player in rejection
Publisher DOI
PubMed ID
16497209
Abstract
The endothelium, as an organ at the interface between the intra- and extravascular space, actively participates in maintaining an anti-inflammatory and anti-coagulant environment under physiological conditions. Severe humoral as well as cellular rejection responses, which accompany cross-species transplantation of vascularized organs as well as ischemia/reperfusion injury, primarily target the endothelium and disrupt this delicate balance. Activation of pro-inflammatory and pro-coagulant pathways often lead to irreversible injury not only of the endothelial layer but also of the entire graft, with ensuing rejection. This review focuses on strategies targeted at protecting the endothelium from such damaging effects, ranging from genetic manipulation of the donor organ to soluble, as well as membrane-targeted, protective strategies.
Date Issued
2006
Publication Type
Article
Language(s)
en
Additional Credits
Journal
Xenotransplantation
Publisher
Wiley
ISSN
0908-665X
ISBN
16497209
Access(Rights)
metadata.only