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Sun J(A, Adil A, Biniazan F, Haykal S. Immunogenicity and tolerance induction in vascularized composite allotransplantation. FRONTIERS IN TRANSPLANTATION 2024; 3:1350546. [PMID: 38993748 PMCID: PMC11235364 DOI: 10.3389/frtra.2024.1350546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Vascularized composite allotransplantation (VCA) is the transplantation of multiple tissues such as skin, muscle, bone, nerve, and vessels, as a functional unit (i.e., hand or face) to patients suffering from major tissue trauma and functional deficits. Though the surgical feasibility has been optimized, issues regarding graft rejection remains. VCA rejection involves a diverse population of cells but is primarily driven by both donor and recipient lymphocytes, antigen-presenting cells, macrophages, and other immune as well as donor-derived cells. In addition, it is commonly understood that different tissues within VCA, such as the skin, elicits a stronger rejection response. Currently, VCA recipients are required to follow potent and lifelong immunosuppressing regimens to maximize graft survival. This puts patients at risk for malignancies, opportunistic infections, and cancers, thereby posing a need for less perilous methods of inducing graft tolerance. This review will provide an overview of cell populations and mechanisms, specific tissue involved in VCA rejection, as well as an updated scope of current methods of tolerance induction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahui (Angela) Sun
- Latner Thoracic Surgery Laboratories, University Health Network, Toronto General Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Aisha Adil
- Latner Thoracic Surgery Laboratories, University Health Network, Toronto General Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Felor Biniazan
- Latner Thoracic Surgery Laboratories, University Health Network, Toronto General Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Siba Haykal
- Latner Thoracic Surgery Laboratories, University Health Network, Toronto General Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Tacrolimus before CTLA4Ig and rapamycin promotes vascularized composite allograft survival in MGH miniature swine. Transpl Immunol 2022; 75:101696. [PMID: 35987329 DOI: 10.1016/j.trim.2022.101696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We evaluated the outcome of vertical rectus abdominus myocutaneous flap (VRAM) allotransplantation in a mini-pig model, using a combined co-stimulation blockade (Co-SB) and mechanistic target of rapamycin inhibition (mTORi)-based regimen, with or without preceding calcineurin inhibition (CNI). MATERIALS AND METHODS VRAM allotransplants were performed between SLA-mismatched MGH miniature swine. Group A (n = 2) was treated continuously with the mTOR inhibitor rapamycin from day -1 in combination with the Co-SB agent cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen 4-Ig (CTLA4-Ig) from post-operative day (POD) 0. In group B (n = 3), animals received tacrolimus daily from POD 0 to POD 13, followed by rapamycin daily from POD 7 and CTLA4-Ig weekly from POD 7-28. Graft rejection was determined by Banff criteria and host cellular and humoral immunity monitored. RESULTS In group A, allografts developed grade-I acute rejection by POD 2 and POD 7, and reached grade-IV by POD 17 and POD 20, respectively. By contrast, in group B, two allografts demonstrated grade-I rejection on POD 30 and grade-IV on POD 74, while the third exhibited grade-I rejection starting on POD 50, though this animal had to be euthanized on POD 58 due to Pneumocystis jirovecii infection. Time-to-event incidence of grade-I rejection was significantly lower in group A compared to group B. During the first 3 weeks post-transplant, no significant differences in anti-donor immunity were observed between the groups. CONCLUSION A short course of CNI, followed by combined Co-SB and mTORi significantly delays acute rejection of VRAM allografts in SLA-mismatched miniature swine.
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Clinical and preclinical tolerance protocols for vascularized composite allograft transplantation. Arch Plast Surg 2021; 48:703-713. [PMID: 34818720 PMCID: PMC8627932 DOI: 10.5999/aps.2021.00927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The field of vascularized composite allografts (VCAs) has undergone significant advancement in recent decades, and VCAs are increasingly common and accepted in the clinical setting, bringing hope of functional recovery to patients with debilitating injuries. A major obstacle facing the widespread application of VCAs is the side effect profile associated with the current immunosuppressive regimen, which can cause a wide array of complications such as infection, malignancy, and even death. Significant concerns remain regarding whether the treatment outweighs the risk. The potential solution to this dilemma would be achieving VCA tolerance, which would allow recipients to receive allografts without significant immunosuppression and its sequelae. Promising tolerance protocols are being studied in kidney transplantation; four major trials have attempted to withdraw immunosuppressive treatment with various successes. The common theme in all four trials is the use of radiation treatment and donor cell transplantation. The knowledge gained from these trials can provide valuable insight into the development of a VCA tolerance protocol. Despite similarities, VCAs present additional barriers compared to kidney allografts regarding tolerance induction. VCA donors are likely to be deceased, which limits the time for significant pre-conditioning. VCA donors are also more likely to be human leukocyte antigen–mismatched, which means that tolerance must be induced across major immunological barriers. This review also explores adjunct therapies studied in large animal models that could be the missing element in establishing a safe and stable tolerance induction method.
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A systematic review of immunomodulatory strategies used in skin-containing preclinical vascularized composite allotransplant models. J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg 2021; 75:586-604. [PMID: 34895853 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjps.2021.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2020] [Revised: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute rejection remains a vexing problem in vascularized composite allotransplantation (VCA). Available immunosuppressive regimens are successful at minimizing alloimmune response and allowing VCA in humans. However, repeated rejection episodes are common, and systemic side effects of the current standard regimen (Tacrolimus, MMF, Prednisone) are dose limiting. Novel immunomodulatory approaches to improve allograft acceptance and minimize systemic toxicity are continuously explored in preclinical models. We aimed to systematically summarize past and current approaches to help guide future research in this complex field. METHODS We conducted a systematic review of manuscripts listed in the MEDLINE and PubMed databases. For inclusion, articles had to primarily investigate the effect of a therapeutic approach on prolonging the survival of a skin-containing preclinical VCA model. Non-VCA studies, human trials, anatomical and feasibility studies, and articles written in a language other than English were excluded. We followed the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. RESULTS The search retrieved 980 articles of which 112 articles were ultimately included. The majority of investigations used a rat model. An orthotopic hind limb VCA model was used in 53% of the studies. Cell and drug-based approaches were investigated 58 and 52 times, respectively. We provide a comprehensive review of immunomodulatory strategies used in VCA preclinical research over a timeframe of 44 years. CONCLUSION We identify a transition from anatomically non-specific to anatomical models mimicking clinical needs. As limb transplants have been most frequently performed, preclinical research focused on using the hind limb model. We also identify a transition from drug-based suppression therapies to cell-based immunomodulation strategies.
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Moris D, Cendales LC. Sensitization and Desensitization in Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation. Front Immunol 2021; 12:682180. [PMID: 34456906 PMCID: PMC8385557 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.682180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascularized composite allotransplantation (VCA) is a field under research and has emerged as an alternative option for the repair of severe disfiguring defects that result from severe tissue loss in a selected group of patients. Lifelong immunosuppressive therapy, immunosuppression associated complications, and the effects of the host immune response in the graft are major concerns in this type of quality-of-life transplant. The initial management of extensive soft tissue injury can lead to the development of anti-HLA antibodies through injury-related factors, transfusion and cadaveric grafting. The role of antibody-mediated rejection, donor-specific antibody (DSA) formation and graft rejection in the context of VCA still remain poorly understood. The most common antigenic target of preexisting alloantibodies are MHC mismatches, though recognition of ABO incompatible antigens, minor histocompatibility complexes and endothelial cells has also been shown to contribute to rejection. Mechanistically, alloantibody-mediated tissue damage occurs primarily through complement fixation as well as through antibody-dependent cellular toxicity. If DSA exist, activation of complement and coagulation cascades can result in vascular thrombosis and infarction and thus rejection and graft loss. Both preexisting DSA but especially de-novo DSA are currently considered as main contributors to late allograft injury and graft failure. Desensitization protocols are currently being developed for VCA, mainly including removal of alloantibodies whereas treatment of established antibody-mediated rejection is achieved through high dose intravenous immunoglobulins. The long-term efficacy of such therapies in sensitized VCA recipients is currently unknown. The current evidence base for sensitizing events and outcomes in reconstructive transplantation is limited. However, current data show that VCA transplantation has been performed in the setting of HLA-sensitization.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Linda C. Cendales
- Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States
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Matar AJ, Crepeau RL, Mundinger GS, Cetrulo CL, Torabi R. Large Animal Models of Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation: A Review of Immune Strategies to Improve Allograft Outcomes. Front Immunol 2021; 12:664577. [PMID: 34276656 PMCID: PMC8278218 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.664577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the past twenty years, significant technical strides have been made in the area of vascularized composite tissue allotransplantation (VCA). As in solid organ transplantation, the allogeneic immune response remains a significant barrier to long-term VCA survival and function. Strategies to overcome acute and chronic rejection, minimize immunosuppression and prolong VCA survival have important clinical implications. Historically, large animals have provided a valuable model for testing the clinical translatability of immune modulating approaches in transplantation, including tolerance induction, co-stimulation blockade, cellular therapies, and ex vivo perfusion. Recently, significant advancements have been made in these arenas utilizing large animal VCA models. In this comprehensive review, we highlight recent immune strategies undertaken to improve VCA outcomes with a focus on relevant preclinical large animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abraham J Matar
- Department of Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Rebecca L Crepeau
- Department of Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Gerhard S Mundinger
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Curtis L Cetrulo
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States.,Center for Transplantation Sciences, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States.,Shriner's Hospital for Children, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Radbeh Torabi
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
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Moris D, Wang J, Selim MA, Song M, Stempora L, Parker W, Kirk AD, Cendales LC. Vascularized composite allotransplants as a mechanistic model for allograft rejection - an experimental study. Transpl Int 2021; 34:572-584. [PMID: 33453073 DOI: 10.1111/tri.13820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Vascularized composite allotransplants (VCAs) seem to have several unique features of clinical and experimental importance, including uniquely definable lymphatic drainage that can be easily accessed at the level of ipsilateral regional node beds. Thus, VCA offers a unique opportunity to assess the relative contribution of peripheral and secondary lymphoid tissue to the process of rejection. We transplanted hind limb grafts from C3H donors to six different groups of C57BL/6 recipients: Spleen+ Map3k14-/- ; Spleen- Map3k14-/- ; Spleen+ Node- Map3k14-/- ; and Spleen- Node- Map3k14-/- . As positive controls, we used Map3k14+/- with or without spleen. Map3k14+/- mice demonstrated an average graft survival of 9.6 and 9.2 days for Spleen- and Spleen+ Map3k14+/- , respectively. Rejection in the Map3k14-/- group was considerably delayed (28.4 days, P = 0.002) in all recipients. The Spleen- Map3k14-/- mice rejected their hind limb allografts in an even more delayed fashion compared to Spleen+ Map3k14-/- (54.4 days, P = 0.02). Histological analysis of skin showed that acute rejection in both Map3k14+/- mice groups was graded as Banff III or Banff IV. In the Map3k14-/- groups, rejection was graded as Banff III. We demonstrated that in the absence of lymph nodes, grafts reject in a delayed fashion. Also, splenectomy in alymphoplastic mice further extends graft survival, but does not eliminate rejection all together.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Moris
- Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jun Wang
- Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Mingqing Song
- Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Linda Stempora
- Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - William Parker
- Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Allan D Kirk
- Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Linda C Cendales
- Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
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9
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Wang J, Wu J, Moris D, Hayes B, Abraham SN, Cendales LC. Introducing a novel experimental model of bladder transplantation in mice. Am J Transplant 2020; 20:3558-3566. [PMID: 32282990 PMCID: PMC11197928 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.15912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Revised: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Bladder dysfunction is a common clinical problem attributed to various conditions such as posterior urethral valves, neurogenic bladder, ureteral ectopy, or bladder exstrophy. Currently, the main therapeutic option for these dysfunctions is neobladder reconstruction with gastrointestinal tract segments. However, the latter was associated with significant long-term complications. To provide a new candidate of possible surgical solution for bladder dysfunction, we propose a novel orthotropic mouse bladder transplantation model. The donor bladder with abdominal aorta and inferior vena cava was isolated and orthotopically sutured to the recipient, whose bladder above the ureteral opening level was removed. The recipient mice showed more than 80% 6-month survival rate and comparable body weight to control mice. At both 1 month and 6 months posttransplant, the urine voiding behavior of recipient mice and control mice was monitored by cystometry. We found that the recipient mice displayed similar bladder pressure and urine secretion ability compared to control mice especially at 6 months posttransplant. Similarity of bladder structure between recipient and control mice was confirmed by histology. As a proof of principle, we tested our model in an allogeneic setting. Early acute rejection was noted after day 5 that was histologically more profound by day 10 posttransplant. These results indicate that the mouse bladder transplant is able to provide normal bladder function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Wang
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Jianxuan Wu
- Department of Immunology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Dimitrios Moris
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Byron Hayes
- Department of Pathology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Soman N. Abraham
- Department of Immunology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
- Department of Pathology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
- Department of Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Linda C. Cendales
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
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Giannis D, Moris D, Cendales LC. Costimulation Blockade in Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation. Front Immunol 2020; 11:544186. [PMID: 33042138 PMCID: PMC7527523 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.544186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular composite allotransplantation (VCA) is a field under research and has emerged as an alternative option for the repair of severe disfiguring defects that result from infections or traumatic amputation in a selected group of patients. VCA is performed in centers with appropriate expertise, experience and adequate resources to effectively manage the complexity and complications of this treatment. Lifelong immunosuppressive therapy, immunosuppression associated complications, and the effects of the host immune response in the graft are major concerns in VCA. VCA is considered a quality of life transplant and the risk-benefit ratio is dissimilar to life saving transplants. Belatacept seems a promising drug that prolongs patient and graft survival in kidney transplantation and it could also be an alternative approach to VCA immunosuppression. In this review, we are summarizing current literature about the role of costimulation blockade, with a focus on belatacept in VCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Giannis
- Institute of Health Innovations and Outcomes Research, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, United States
| | - Dimitrios Moris
- Duke Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Linda C. Cendales
- Duke Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States
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Atia A, Moris D, McRae M, Song M, Stempora L, Leopardi F, Williams K, Kwun J, Parker W, Cardones AR, Kirk AD, Cendales LC. Th17 cell inhibition in a costimulation blockade-based regimen for vascularized composite allotransplantation using a nonhuman primate model. Transpl Int 2020; 33:1294-1301. [PMID: 32277724 DOI: 10.1111/tri.13612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Revised: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Vascularized composite allotransplantation (VCA) is challenged by the morbidity of immunosuppression required to prevent rejection. The use of highly specific biologics has not been well explored in VCA. Given that psoriasis is T-cell mediated, as is rejection of skin-containing VCAs, we sought to assess the role of ustekinumab and secukinumab, which are approved to treat psoriasis by inhibiting Th17 cells. We combined these agents with belatacept and steroids in a VCA nonhuman primate model. Group I consisted of belatacept and steroids, group II was belatacept, ustekinumab with steroid taper, and group III was belatacept, secukinumab with steroid taper. Three animals were transplanted in each group. In group I, the mean graft survival time until the first sign of rejection was 10 days whereas in group II and III it was 10.33 and 11 days, respectively. The immunohistochemistry analysis showed that the number of IL-17a+ cells and the intensity of IL-17a expression were significantly reduced in both dermis and hypodermis parts in groups II and III when compared to group I (P < 0.01). Ustekinumab and secukinumab led to less T-cell infiltration and IL-17a expression in the allograft but provided no benefit to belatacept and steroids in VCA survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Atia
- Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Dimitrios Moris
- Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - MacKenzie McRae
- Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Mingqing Song
- Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Linda Stempora
- Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Francis Leopardi
- Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Kyha Williams
- Division of Laboratory Animal Resources, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jean Kwun
- Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - William Parker
- Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Adela R Cardones
- Department of Dermatology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Allan D Kirk
- Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Linda C Cendales
- Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
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Schweizer R, Taddeo A, Waldner M, Klein HJ, Fuchs N, Kamat P, Targosinski S, Barth AA, Drach MC, Gorantla VS, Cinelli P, Plock JA. Adipose-derived stromal cell therapy combined with a short course nonmyeloablative conditioning promotes long-term graft tolerance in vascularized composite allotransplantation. Am J Transplant 2020; 20:1272-1284. [PMID: 31774619 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.15726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2019] [Revised: 10/18/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The risks of chronic immunosuppression limit the utility of vascularized composite allotransplantation (VCA) as a reconstructive option in complex tissue defects. We evaluated a novel, clinically translatable, radiation-free conditioning protocol that combines anti-lymphocyte serum (ALS), tacrolimus, and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 immunoglobulin (CTLA4-Ig) with adipose-derived stromal cells (ASCs) to allow VCA survival without long-term systemic immunosuppression. Full-mismatched rat hind-limb-transplant recipients received tacrolimus (0.5 mg/kg) for 14 days and were assigned to 4 groups: controls (CTRL) received no conditioning; ASC-group received CTLA4-Ig (10 mg/kg body weight i.p. postoperative day [POD] 2, 4, 7) and donor ASCs (1 × 106 iv, POD 2, 4, 7, 15, 28); the ASC-cyclophosphamide (CYP)-group received CTLA4-Ig, ASC plus cyclophosphamide (50 mg/kg ip, POD 3); the ASC-ALS-group received CTLA4-Ig, ASCs plus ALS (500 µL ip, POD 1, 5). Banff grade III or 120 days were endpoints. ASCs suppressed alloresponse in vitro. Median rejection-free VCA survival was 28 days in CTRL (n = 7), 34 in ASC (n = 6), and 27.5 in ASC-CYP (n = 4). In contrast, ASC-ALS achieved significantly longer, rejection-free VCA survival in 6/7 animals (86%), with persistent mixed donor-cell chimerism, and elevated systemic and allograft skin Tregs , with no signs of acute cellular rejection. Taken together, a regimen comprised of short-course tacrolimus, repeated CTLA4-Ig and ASC administration, combined with ALS, promotes long-term VCA survival without chronic immunosuppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Schweizer
- Department of Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery, Regenerative and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery Laboratory, University Hospital Zurich (USZ), University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Adriano Taddeo
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Waldner
- Department of Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery, Regenerative and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery Laboratory, University Hospital Zurich (USZ), University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Holger J Klein
- Department of Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery, Regenerative and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery Laboratory, University Hospital Zurich (USZ), University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nina Fuchs
- Department of Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery, Regenerative and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery Laboratory, University Hospital Zurich (USZ), University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Pranitha Kamat
- Department of Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery, Regenerative and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery Laboratory, University Hospital Zurich (USZ), University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Stefan Targosinski
- Department of Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery, Regenerative and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery Laboratory, University Hospital Zurich (USZ), University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - André A Barth
- Department of Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery, Regenerative and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery Laboratory, University Hospital Zurich (USZ), University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mathias C Drach
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Zurich (USZ), University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Vijay S Gorantla
- Department of Surgery, Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Paolo Cinelli
- Department of Traumatology, Division of Surgical Research, University Hospital Zurich (USZ), University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jan A Plock
- Department of Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery, Regenerative and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery Laboratory, University Hospital Zurich (USZ), University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Lee KW, Kim TH, Lee JB, Kim KS, Park JB, Gershkovich P, Yoo SD, Shin S, Shin BS, Kim SJ. Reduced variability in tacrolimus pharmacokinetics following intramuscular injection compared to oral administration in cynomolgus monkeys: Investigating optimal dosing regimens. J Pharmacol Sci 2018; 139:65-71. [PMID: 30573325 DOI: 10.1016/j.jphs.2018.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2017] [Revised: 05/06/2018] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Tacrolimus is one of the most commonly used immunosuppressive agents in animal models of transplantation. However, in these models, oral administration is often problematic due to the lowered compliance associated with highly invasive surgery and due to malabsorption in the intestinal tract. Therefore, we carried out a study to determine the pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus after intramuscular (IM) injection and to determine the optimal IM dosing regimens in primate models. Six male cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fascicularis) were used in the study. Doses of 0.1 mg/kg and 5 mg were administered via IM injection and oral administration, respectively, once to determine single-dose pharmacokinetics and once daily for 5 days to determine multiple-dose pharmacokinetics. According to pharmacokinetic model estimates, the inter- and intra-individual variabilities in bioavailability following IM injection were remarkably reduced compared with those following oral administration. Monte Carlo simulations revealed that Cpeak, Ctrough and AUC would also have less variability following IM injection compared with oral administration. In this study, we found that the pharmacokinetic characteristics of tacrolimus were more constant following IM injection compared with oral administration. These results suggest that IM injection can be an alternative route of administration fin non-human primate model studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyo Won Lee
- Department of Surgery, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Tae Hwan Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Daegu Catholic University, Gyeongsan, Gyeongbuk, South Korea
| | - Jong Bong Lee
- School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Kyeong Sik Kim
- Department of Surgery, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jae Berm Park
- Department of Surgery, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | | | - Sun Dong Yoo
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
| | - Soyoung Shin
- College of Pharmacy, Wonkwang University, Iksan, Jeonbuk, South Korea
| | - Beom Soo Shin
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea.
| | - Sung Joo Kim
- Department of Surgery, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.
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Cendales LC, Ruch DS, Cardones AR, Potter G, Dooley J, Dore D, Orr J, Ruskin G, Song M, Chen DF, Selim MA, Kirk AD. De novo belatacept in clinical vascularized composite allotransplantation. Am J Transplant 2018; 18:1804-1809. [PMID: 29723921 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.14910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2018] [Revised: 03/27/2018] [Accepted: 04/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Most immunosuppressive regimens used in clinical vascularized composite allotransplantation (VCA) have been calcineurin inhibitor (CNI)-based. As such, most recipients have experienced CNI-related side effects. Costimulation blockade, specifically CD28/B7 inhibition with belatacept, has emerged as a clinical replacement for CNI-based immunosuppression in kidney transplantation. We have previously shown that belatacept can be used as a centerpiece immunosuppressant for VCA in nonhuman primates, and subsequently reported successful conversion from a CNI-based regimen to a belatacept-based regimen after clinical hand transplantation. We now report on the case of a hand transplant recipient, whom we have successfully treated with a de novo belatacept-based regimen, transitioned to a CNI-free regimen. This case demonstrates that belatacept can provide sufficient prophylaxis from rejection without chronic CNI-associated side effects, a particularly important goal in nonlifesaving solid organ transplants such as VCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda C Cendales
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - David S Ruch
- Department of Orthopaedics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Adela R Cardones
- Department of Dermatology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Guy Potter
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Joshua Dooley
- Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Daniel Dore
- Department of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy, Duke University Hospital, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jonah Orr
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Gregory Ruskin
- Department of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy, Duke University Hospital, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Mingqing Song
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Dong-Feng Chen
- Department of Pathology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Maria A Selim
- Department of Dermatology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.,Department of Pathology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Allan D Kirk
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
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15
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Grahammer J, Weissenbacher A, Zelger BG, Zelger B, Boesmueller C, Ninkovic M, Mühlbacher A, Peschel I, Brandacher G, Öfner D, Schneeberger S. Benefits and limitations of belatacept in 4 hand-transplanted patients. Am J Transplant 2017; 17:3228-3235. [PMID: 28742936 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.14440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2017] [Revised: 07/04/2017] [Accepted: 07/17/2017] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Belatacept (cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 Ig) is an emerging treatment in kidney transplantation. Lack of nephrotoxicity and possibly an inhibitory effect on the development of donor-specific antibodies (DSAs) make it an interesting agent in hand transplantation. To reduce calcineurin inhibitor immunosuppression and preserve kidney function, we have added belatacept to the therapeutic regimen of 4 hand-transplanted patients at month 4 and at 6, 9, and 13 years after hand-forearm transplantation. Patients received 5 mg/kg belatacept every 2 weeks, and the dosing interval was extended to 4 weeks after 5 applications. Belatacept was initially well tolerated in all cases. Two patients were weaned to a low-dose tacrolimus monotherapy together with monthly belatacept applications. One patient is taking belatacept with lowered tacrolimus and sirolimus trough levels. A fourth patient had significant levels of DSAs at time of conversion and progressed to a severe necrotizing rejection early despite an unaltered baseline immunosuppression. Finger skin necrosis and histologic signs of severe chronic allograft vasculopathy eventually led to amputation of the graft. Implementation of belatacept can be beneficial in hand transplantation. However, our findings indicated both potential and caution and reflection of the immunologic state at the time of conversion.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Grahammer
- Department for Visceral, Thoracic and Transplant Surgery, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - A Weissenbacher
- Department for Visceral, Thoracic and Transplant Surgery, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria.,Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford Transplant Centre, Oxford, UK
| | - B G Zelger
- Department for Pathology, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - B Zelger
- Department for Dermatology, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - C Boesmueller
- Department for Visceral, Thoracic and Transplant Surgery, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - M Ninkovic
- Institute for Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - A Mühlbacher
- Institute for Transfusion and Immunology, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - I Peschel
- Division of Medical Biochemistry, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - G Brandacher
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation (VCA) Laboratory, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - D Öfner
- Department for Visceral, Thoracic and Transplant Surgery, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - S Schneeberger
- Department for Visceral, Thoracic and Transplant Surgery, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
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16
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The Role of Costimulation Blockade in Solid Organ and Islet Xenotransplantation. J Immunol Res 2017; 2017:8415205. [PMID: 29159187 PMCID: PMC5660816 DOI: 10.1155/2017/8415205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2017] [Accepted: 09/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Pig-to-human xenotransplantation offers a potential bridge to the growing disparity between patients with end-stage organ failure and graft availability. Early studies attempting to overcome cross-species barriers demonstrated robust humoral immune responses to discordant xenoantigens. Recent advances have led to highly efficient and targeted genomic editing, drastically altering the playing field towards rapid production of less immunogenic porcine tissues and even the discussion of human xenotransplantation trials. However, as these humoral immune barriers to cross-species transplantation are overcome with advanced transgenics, cellular immunity to these novel xenografts remains an outstanding issue. Therefore, understanding and optimizing immunomodulation will be paramount for successful clinical xenotransplantation. Costimulation blockade agents have been introduced in xenotransplantation research in 2000 with anti-CD154mAb. Most recently, prolonged survival has been achieved in solid organ (kidney xenograft survival > 400 days with anti-CD154mAb, heart xenograft survival > 900 days, and liver xenograft survival 29 days with anti-CD40mAb) and islet xenotransplantation (>600 days with anti-CD154mAb) with the use of these potent experimental agents. As the development of novel genetic modifications and costimulation blocking agents converges, we review their impact thus far on preclinical xenotransplantation and the potential for future application.
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17
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Samy KP, Anderson DA, Lo DJ, Mulvihill MS, Song M, Farris AB, Parker BS, MacDonald AL, Lu C, Springer TA, Kachlany SC, Reimann KA, How T, Leopardi FV, Franke KS, Williams KD, Collins BH, Kirk AD. Selective Targeting of High-Affinity LFA-1 Does Not Augment Costimulation Blockade in a Nonhuman Primate Renal Transplantation Model. Am J Transplant 2017; 17:1193-1203. [PMID: 27888551 PMCID: PMC5409867 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.14141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2016] [Revised: 11/01/2016] [Accepted: 11/08/2016] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Costimulation blockade (CoB) via belatacept is a lower-morbidity alternative to calcineurin inhibitor (CNI)-based immunosuppression. However, it has higher rates of early acute rejection. These early rejections are mediated in part by memory T cells, which have reduced dependence on the pathway targeted by belatacept and increased adhesion molecule expression. One such molecule is leukocyte function antigen (LFA)-1. LFA-1 exists in two forms: a commonly expressed, low-affinity form and a transient, high-affinity form, expressed only during activation. We have shown that antibodies reactive with LFA-1 regardless of its configuration are effective in eliminating memory T cells but at the cost of impaired protective immunity. Here we test two novel agents, leukotoxin A and AL-579, each of which targets the high-affinity form of LFA-1, to determine whether this more precise targeting prevents belatacept-resistant rejection. Despite evidence of ex vivo and in vivo ligand-specific activity, neither agent when combined with belatacept proved superior to belatacept monotherapy. Leukotoxin A approached a ceiling of toxicity before efficacy, while AL-579 failed to significantly alter the peripheral immune response. These data, and prior studies, suggest that LFA-1 blockade may not be a suitable adjuvant agent for CoB-resistant rejection.
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Affiliation(s)
- KP Samy
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710
| | - DA Anderson
- Emory Transplant Center, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322
| | - DJ Lo
- Emory Transplant Center, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322
| | - MS Mulvihill
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710
| | - M Song
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710
| | - AB Farris
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322
| | - BS Parker
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710
| | - AL MacDonald
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710
| | - C Lu
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
| | - TA Springer
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
| | - SC Kachlany
- Rutgers University, School of Medicine, Newark, NJ 07103,Actinobac Biomed, Inc., Kendall Park, NJ 08824
| | - KA Reimann
- Mass-Biologics, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Boston, MA 02126
| | - T How
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710
| | - FV Leopardi
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710
| | - KS Franke
- Division of Laboratory Animal Resources, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710
| | - KD Williams
- Division of Laboratory Animal Resources, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710
| | - BH Collins
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710
| | - AD Kirk
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710,Emory Transplant Center, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322
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18
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Ng ZY, Read C, Kurtz JM, Cetrulo CL. Memory T Cells in Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/23723505.2016.1229649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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19
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Abstract
Antigen-experienced T cells, also known as memory T cells, are functionally and phenotypically distinct from naive T cells. Their enhanced expression of adhesion molecules and reduced requirement for co-stimulation enables them to mount potent and rapid recall responses to subsequent antigen encounters. Memory T cells generated in response to prior antigen exposures can cross-react with other nonidentical, but similar, antigens. This heterologous cross-reactivity not only enhances protective immune responses, but also engenders de novo alloimmunity. This latter characteristic is increasingly recognized as a potential barrier to allograft acceptance that is worthy of immunotherapeutic intervention, and several approaches have been investigated. Calcineurin inhibition effectively controls memory T-cell responses to allografts, but this benefit comes at the expense of increased infectious morbidity. Lymphocyte depletion eliminates allospecific T cells but spares memory T cells to some extent, such that patients do not completely lose protective immunity. Co-stimulation blockade is associated with reduced adverse-effect profiles and improved graft function relative to calcineurin inhibition, but lacks efficacy in controlling memory T-cell responses. Targeting the adhesion molecules that are upregulated on memory T cells might offer additional means to control co-stimulation-blockade-resistant memory T-cell responses.
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