Abstract
Purpose: In order to investigate effectiveness of removal of the antixeno-antibodies in xenotransplantation(xeno Tx), WBRO using pyridoxalated-human hemoglobin-polyethyleneglycol conjugate (PHP solution) was performed prior to transplantation(Tx) of a guinea pig heart in a rat.
Materials & Method: Experiment I. Removal of the immunoglobulins and the anti-guinea pig lymphocytotoxic antibody (ALA) by WBRO. Exchange transfusion with the PHP solution was done in the Tx-expected rats until a hematocrit lowered below 5% (n=11). Experiment II. Xeno heart Txs. Guinea pig hearts were transplanted into rats without immunosuppressants 1) without (n=8) or 2) with the WBRO (n=8).
Results: Experiment I. Levels lowered to 14% in IgG, 17% in IgA and 6% in IgM, respectively, to initial values after the WBRO. An ALA titer lowered from 4 × (+) to 1 × (−) after the WBRO. Experiment II. An average heart contraction period was 10. 4×1.8 minutes 1) without the WBRO in contrast to 472.5 ± 4.8 minutes with the WBRO (p < 0.01).
Conclusion: WBRO using PHP solution is effective in removal of the anti-xeno-antibodies and consequent prolongation of survival of the xenograft.