Rapid loss of intraportally transplanted islets: an overview of pathophysiology and preventive strategies

Adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells promote the vascularization of pancreatic islets transplanted into decellularized pancreatic skeletons

We have recently developed a model of pancreatic islet transplantation into a decellularized pancreatic tail in rats. As the pancreatic skeletons completely lack endothelial cells, we investigated the effect of co-transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells and endothelial cells to promote revascularization. Decellularized matrix of the pancreatic tail was prepared by perfusion with Triton X-100, sodium dodecyl sulfate and DNase solution. Isolated pancreatic islets were infused into the skeletons via the splenic vein either alone, together with adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (adMSCs), or with a combination of adMSCs and rat endothelial cells (rat ECs). Repopulated skeletons were transplanted into the subcutaneous tissue and explanted 9 days later for histological examination. Possible immunomodulatory effects of rat adMSCs on the survival of highly immunogenic green protein-expressing human ECs were also tested after their transplantation beneath the renal capsule. The immunomodulatory effects of adMSCs were also tested in vitro using the Invitrogen Click-iT EdU system. In the presence of adMSCs, the proliferation of splenocytes as a response to phytohaemagglutinin A was reduced by 47% (the stimulation index decreased from 1.7 to 0.9, P = 0.008) and the reaction to human ECs was reduced by 58% (the stimulation index decreased from 1.6 to 0.7, P = 0.03). Histological examination of the explanted skeletons seeded only with the islets showed their partial disintegration and only a rare presence of CD31-positive cells. However, skeletons seeded with a combination of islets and adMSCs showed preserved islet morphology and rich vascularity. In contrast, the addition of syngeneic rat ECs resulted in islet-cell necrosis with only few endothelial cells present. Live green fluorescence-positive endothelial cells transplanted either alone or with adMSCs were not detected beneath the renal capsule. Though the adMSCs significantly reduced in vitro proliferation stimulated by either phytohaemagglutinin A or by xenogeneic human ECs, in vivo co-transplanted adMSCs did not suppress the post-transplant immune response to xenogeneic ECs. Even in the syngeneic model, ECs co-transplantation did not lead to sufficient vascularization in the transplant area. In contrast, islet co-transplantation together with adMSCs successfully promoted the revascularization of extracellular matrix in the subcutaneous tissue.

A brief review of the current status of pig islet xenotransplantation

An estimated 1.5 million Americans suffer from Type I diabetes mellitus, and its incidence is increasing worldwide. Islet allotransplantation offers a treatment, but the availability of deceased human donor pancreases is limited. The transplantation of islets from gene-edited pigs, if successful, would resolve this problem. Pigs are now available in which the expression of the three known xenoantigens against which humans have natural (preformed) antibodies has been deleted, and in which several human 'protective' genes have been introduced. The transplantation of neonatal pig islets has some advantages over that of adult pig islets. Transplantation into the portal vein of the recipient results in loss of many islets from the instant blood-mediated inflammatory reaction (IBMIR) and so the search for an alternative site continues. The adaptive immune response can be largely suppressed by an immunosuppressive regimen based on blockade of the CD40/CD154 T cell co-stimulation pathway, whereas conventional therapy (e.g., based on tacrolimus) is less successful. We suggest that, despite the need for effective immunosuppressive therapy, the transplantation of 'free' islets will prove more successful than that of encapsulated islets. There are data to suggest that, in the absence of rejection, the function of pig islets, though less efficient than human islets, will be sufficient to maintain normoglycemia in diabetic recipients. Pig islets transplanted into immunosuppressed nonhuman primates have maintained normoglycemia for periods extending more than two years, illustrating the potential of this novel form of therapy.

Combinatorial islet protective therapeutic approaches in β-cell transplantation: Rationally designed solutions using a target product profile

While progress has been made in the development of islet cell transplantation (ICT) as a viable alternative to the use of exogenous insulin therapy in the treatment of type 1 diabetes, it has not yet achieved its full potential in clinical studies. Ideally, ICT would enable lifelong maintenance of euglycemia without the need for exogenous insulin, blood glucose monitoring or systemic immune suppression. To achieve such an optimal result, therapeutic approaches should simultaneously promote long-term islet viability, functionality, and localized immune protection. In practice, however, these factors are typically tackled individually. Furthermore, while the requirements of optimal ICT are implicitly acknowledged across numerous publications, the literature contains few comprehensive articulations of the target product profile (TPP) for an optimal ICT product, including key characteristics of safety and efficacy. This review aims to provide a novel TPP for ICT and presents promising tried and untried combinatorial approaches that could be used to achieve the target product profile. We also highlight regulatory barriers to the development and adoption of ICT, particularly in the United States, where ICT is only approved for use in academic clinical trials and is not reimbursed by insurance carriers. Overall, this review argues that the clear definition of a TPP in addition to the use of combinatorial approaches could help to overcome the clinical barriers to the widespread adoption of ICT for the treatment of type 1 diabetes.

Stem Cell Therapy, Artificial Heart or Xenotransplantation: What will be New “Regenerative” Strategies in Heart Failure during the Next Decade?

The main limitation of allotransplantation and in particular heart transplantation is the insufficient supply of donor organs. As alternative strategies to heart transplantation, stem cells opened the way of regenerative medicine in early 2000. While new biotechnologies tried to minimize side effects due to hemocompatibility in artificial hearts, progress in xenotransplantation allowed in 2022 to realize the first pig-to-human heart transplant on a compassionate use basis. This xenotransplantation has been successful thanks to genetically modified pigs using the CRISPR-Cas9 technology. Indeed, gene editing allowed modifications of immune responses and thrombotic potential to modulate graft and systemic reaction. Academic research and preclinical studies of xenogeneic tissues already used in clinic such as bioprosthesis valve and of new xenotransplantation options will be necessary to evaluate immune-thrombosis and organ/vascular damages more deeply to make this hope of xenotransplantation a clinical reality. Stem cells, artificial heart and xenotransplantation are all in line to overcome the lack of donor hearts. Combination of stem cell approaches and/or xenogeneic tissue and/or artificial organs are probably part of the research objectives to make these projects real in the short term.

Patch grafting of organoids of stem/progenitors into solid organs can correct genetic-based disease states

Patch grafting, a novel strategy for transplantation of stem/progenitor organoids into porcine livers, has been found successful also for organoid transplantation into other normal or diseased solid organs in pigs and mice. Each organoid contained ∼100 cells comprised of biliary tree stem cells (BTSCs), co-hepato/pancreatic stem/progenitors, and partnered with early lineage stage mesenchymal cells (ELSMCs), angioblasts and precursors to endothelia and stellate cells. Patch grafting enabled transplantation into livers or pancreases of ≥108th (pigs) or ≥106th-7th (mice) organoids/patch. Graft conditions fostered expression of multiple matrix-metalloproteinases (MMPs), especially secretory isoforms, resulting in transient loss of the organ's matrix-dictated histological features, including organ capsules, and correlated with rapid integration within a week of organoids throughout the organs and without emboli or ectopic cell distribution. Secondarily, within another week, there was clearance of graft biomaterials, followed by muted expression of MMPs, restoration of matrix-dictated histology, and maturation of donor cells to functional adult fates. The ability of patch grafts of organoids to rescue hosts from genetic-based disease states was demonstrated with grafts of BTSC/ELSMC organoids on livers, able to rescue NRG/FAH-KO mice from type I tyrosinemia, a disease caused by absence of fumaryl acetoacetate hydrolase. With the same grafts, if on pancreas, they were able to rescue NRG/Akita mice from type I diabetes, caused by a mutation in the insulin 2 gene. The potential of patch grafting for cell therapies for solid organs now requires translational studies to enable its adaptation and uses for clinical programs.

Cellular Immune Responses in Islet Xenograft Rejection

Porcine islets surviving the acute injury caused by humoral rejection and IBMIR will be subjected to cellular xenograft rejection, which is predominately mediated by CD4⁺ T cells and is characterised by significant infiltration of macrophages, B cells and T cells (CD4⁺ and CD8⁺). Overall, the response is different compared to the alloimmune response and more difficult to suppress. Activation of CD4⁺ T cells is both by direct and indirect antigen presentation. After activation they recruit macrophages and direct B cell responses. Although they are less important than CD4⁺ T cells in islet xenograft rejection, macrophages are believed to be a major effector cell in this response. Rodent studies have shown that xenoantigen-primed and CD4⁺ T cell-activated macrophages were capable of recognition and rejection of pancreatic islet xenografts, and they destroyed a graft via the secretion of various proinflammatory mediators, including TNF-α, reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, and complement factors. B cells are an important mediator of islet xenograft rejection via xenoantigen presentation, priming effector T cells and producing xenospecific antibodies. Depletion and/or inhibition of B cells combined with suppressing T cells has been suggested as a promising strategy for induction of xeno-donor-specific T- and B-cell tolerance in islet xenotransplantation. Thus, strategies that expand the influence of regulatory T cells and inhibit and/or reduce macrophage and B cell responses are required for use in combination with clinical applicable immunosuppressive agents to achieve effective suppression of the T cell-initiated xenograft response.

Viability and Functionality of Neonatal Porcine Islet-like Cell Clusters Bioprinted in Alginate-Based Bioinks

The transplantation of pancreatic islets can prevent severe long-term complications in diabetes mellitus type 1 patients. With respect to a shortage of donor organs, the transplantation of xenogeneic islets is highly attractive. To avoid rejection, islets can be encapsulated in immuno-protective hydrogel-macrocapsules, whereby 3D bioprinted structures with macropores allow for a high surface-to-volume ratio and reduced diffusion distances. In the present study, we applied 3D bioprinting to encapsulate the potentially clinically applicable neonatal porcine islet-like cell clusters (NICC) in alginate-methylcellulose. The material was additionally supplemented with bovine serum albumin or the human blood plasma derivatives platelet lysate and fresh frozen plasma. NICC were analysed for viability, proliferation, the presence of hormones, and the release of insulin in reaction to glucose stimulation. Bioprinted NICC are homogeneously distributed, remain morphologically intact, and show a comparable viability and proliferation to control NICC. The number of insulin-positive cells is comparable between the groups and over time. The amount of insulin release increases over time and is released in response to glucose stimulation over 4 weeks. In summary, we show the successful bioprinting of NICC and could demonstrate functionality over the long-term in vitro. Supplementation resulted in a trend for higher viability, but no additional benefit on functionality was observed.

Aspects of the Complement System in New Era of Xenotransplantation

After producing triple (Gal, H-D and Sd^a)-KO pigs, hyperacute rejection appeared to no longer be a problem. However, the origin of xeno-rejection continues to be a controversial topic, including small amounts of antibodies and subsequent activation of the graft endothelium, the complement recognition system and the coagulation systems. The complement is activated via the classical pathway by non-Gal/H-D/Sda antigens and by ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI), via the alternative pathway, especially on islets, and via the lectin pathway. The complement system therefore is still an important recognition and effector mechanism in xeno-rejection. All complement regulatory proteins (CRPs) regulate complement activation in different manners. Therefore, to effectively protect xenografts against xeno-rejection, it would appear reasonable to employ not only one but several CRPs including anti-complement drugs. The further assessment of antigens continues to be an important issue in the area of clinical xenotransplantation. The above conclusions suggest that the expression of sufficient levels of human CRPs on Triple-KO grafts is necessary. Moreover, multilateral inhibition on local complement activation in the graft, together with the control of signals between macrophages and lymphocytes is required.

Clinically available immunosuppression averts rejection but not systemic inflammation after porcine islet xenotransplant in cynomolgus macaques

A safe, efficacious, and clinically applicable immunosuppressive regimen is necessary for islet xenotransplantation to become a viable treatment option for diabetes. We performed intraportal transplants of wild-type adult porcine islets in 25 streptozotocin-diabetic cynomolgus monkeys. Islet engraftment was good in 21, partial in 3, and poor in 1 recipient. Median xenograft survival was 25 days with rapamycin and CTLA4Ig immunosuppression. Adding basiliximab induction and maintenance tacrolimus to the base regimen significantly extended median graft survival to 147 days (p < .0001), with three animals maintaining insulin-free xenograft survival for 265, 282, and 288 days. We demonstrate that this regimen suppresses non-Gal anti-pig antibody responses, circulating effector memory T cell expansion, effector function, and infiltration of the graft. However, a chronic systemic inflammatory state manifested in the majority of recipients with long-term graft survival indicated by increased neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio, IL-6, MCP-1, CD40, and CRP expression. This suggests that this immunosuppression regimen fails to regulate innate immunity and resulting inflammation is significantly associated with increased incidence and severity of adverse events making this regimen unacceptable for translation. Additional studies are needed to optimize a maintenance regimen for regulating the innate inflammatory response.

Enhanced Differentiation Capacity and Transplantation Efficacy of Insulin-Producing Cell Clusters from Human iPSCs Using Permeable Nanofibrous Microwell-Arrayed Membrane for Diabetes Treatment

Although pancreatic islet transplantation is a potentially curative treatment for insulin-dependent diabetes, a shortage of donor sources, low differentiation capacity, and transplantation efficacy are major hurdles to overcome before becoming a standard therapy. Stem cell-derived insulin-producing cells (IPCs) are a potential approach to overcoming these limitations. To improve the differentiation capacity of the IPCs, cell cluster formation is crucial to mimic the 3D structure of the islet. This study developed a biodegradable polycaprolactone (PCL) electrospun nanofibrous (NF) microwell-arrayed membrane permeable to soluble factors. Based on the numerical analysis and experimental diffusion test, the NF microwell could provide sufficient nutrients, unlike an impermeable PDMS (polydimethylsiloxane) microwell. The IPC clusters in the NF microwells showed higher gene expression of insulin and PDX1 and insulin secretion than the PDMS microwells. The IPC clusters in the NF microwell-arrayed membrane could be directly transplanted. Transplanted IPC clusters in the microwells survived well and expressed PDX1 and insulin. Additionally, human c-peptide was identified in the blood plasma at two months after transplantation of the membranes. The NF microwell-arrayed membrane can be a new platform promoting IPC differentiation capacity and realizing an in situ transplantation technique for diabetic patients.

Recent Progress of Research Regarding the Applications of Stem Cells for Treating Diabetes Mellitus

At present, the number of diabetes patients has exceeded 537 million worldwide and this number continues to increase. Stem cell therapy represents a new direction for the treatment of diabetes; the use of stem cells overcomes some shortcomings associated with traditional therapies. Functional β-cells play an important role in the pathogenesis of diabetes. As therapeutic targets, functional β-cells are restored by a variety of stem cells, including pluripotent stem cells, mesenchymal cells, and urine-derived stem cells. Although all types of stem cells have their own characteristics, they mainly promote the repair and regeneration of β-cells through directional differentiation, immunomodulation, and paracrine signaling after homing to the injured site. However, stem cell therapy still faces many obstacles, such as low long-term cell survival rate after transplantation, low maintenance time of blood glucose homeostasis, immune rejection, and tumorigenesis. Recently, genetically edited pluripotent stem cells and the co-transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells and islet cells have made significant progress in improving the efficacy of stem cell transplantation processes, also providing powerful tools for the study of the mechanisms underlying diabetes and disease modeling. In this review, we first focused on: (1) stem cells as a pool for the differentiation of insulin-producing cells; (2) stem cells as a source for regenerative repair of damaged islets and as a potential co-transplanted population with islets; (3) the potential of combining gene editing with stem cell therapy; and (4) selection of the stem cell transplantation approach. Based on these topics, we discuss the challenges within the field of adapting stem cell-supported and stem cell-derived transplantations, and the promising routes for overcoming these problems.

Current Topics of Relevance to the Xenotransplantation of Free Pig Islets

Pig islet xenotransplantation is a potential treatment for patients with type 1 diabetes. Current efforts are focused on identifying the optimal pig islet source and overcoming the immunological barrier. The optimal age of the pig donors remains controversial since both adult and neonatal pig islets have advantages. Isolation of adult islets using GMP grade collagenase has significantly improved the quantity and quality of adult islets, but neonatal islets can be isolated at a much lower cost. Certain culture media and coculture with mesenchymal stromal cells facilitate neonatal islet maturation and function. Genetic modification in pigs affords a promising strategy to prevent rejection. Deletion of expression of the three known carbohydrate xenoantigens (Gal, Neu5Gc, Sda) will certainly be beneficial in pig organ transplantation in humans, but this is not yet proven in islet transplantation, though the challenge of the '4th xenoantigen' may prove problematic in nonhuman primate models. Blockade of the CD40/CD154 costimulation pathway leads to long-term islet graft survival (of up to 965 days). Anti-CD40mAbs have already been applied in phase II clinical trials of islet allotransplantation. Fc region-modified anti-CD154mAbs successfully prevent the thrombotic complications reported previously. In this review, we discuss (I) the optimal age of the islet-source pig, (ii) progress in genetic modification of pigs, (iii) the immunosuppressive regimen for pig islet xenotransplantation, and (iv) the reduction in the instant blood-mediated inflammatory reaction.

Human Hemangioblast-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Promote Islet Engraftment in a Minimal Islet Mass Transplantation Model in Mice

Islet transplantation can restore glycemic control in patients with type 1 diabetes. Using this procedure, the early stages of engraftment are often crucial to long-term islet function, and outcomes are not always successful. Numerous studies have shown that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) facilitate islet graft function. However, experimental data can be inconsistent due to variables associated with MSC generation (including donor characteristics and tissue source), thus, demonstrating the need for a well-characterized and uniform cell product before translation to the clinic. Unlike bone marrow- or adipose tissue-derived MSCs, human embryonic stem cell-derived-MSCs (hESC-MSCs) offer an unlimited source of stable and highly-characterized cells that are easily scalable. Here, we studied the effects of human hemangioblast-derived mesenchymal cells (HMCs), (i.e., MSCs differentiated from hESCs using a hemangioblast intermediate), on islet cell transplantation using a minimal islet mass model. The co-transplantation of the HMCs allowed a mass of islets that was insufficient to correct diabetes on its own to restore glycemic control in all recipients. Our in vitro studies help to elucidate the mechanisms including reduction of cytokine stress by which the HMCs support islet graft protection in vivo. Derivation, stability, and scalability of the HMC source may offer unique advantages for clinical applications, including fewer islets needed for successful islet transplantation.

Current status of porcine islet xenotransplantation

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Human islet transplantation has proven to be a highly effective treatment for patients with labile type 1 diabetes mellitus, which can free patients from daily glucose monitoring and insulin injections. However, the shortage of islet donors limits its' broad application. Porcine islet xenotransplantation presents a solution to the donor shortage and recent advances in genetic modification and immunosuppressive regimens provide renewed enthusiasm for the potential of this treatment.

RECENT FINDINGS

Advances in genetic editing technology are leading to multigene modified porcine islet donors with alterations in expression of known xenoantigens, modifications of their complement and coagulation systems, and modifications to gain improved immunological compatibility. Recent NHP-based trials of costimulation blockade using CD154 blockade show promising improvements in islet survival, whereas results targeting CD40 are less consistent. Furthermore, trials using IL-6 receptor antagonism have yet to demonstrate improvement in glucose control and suffer from poor graft revascularization.

SUMMARY

This review will detail the current status of islet xenotransplantation as a potential treatment for type I diabetes mellitus, focusing on recent advances in porcine xenogeneic islet production, assessment in nonhuman primate preclinical models, the outcome of human clinical trials and review barriers to translation of xenoislets to the clinic.

Porcine genome engineering for xenotransplantation

The extreme shortage of human donor organs for treatment of patients with end-stage organ failures is well known. Xenotransplantation, which might provide unlimited organ supply, is a most promising strategy to solve this problem. Domestic pigs are regarded as ideal organ-source animals owing to similarity in anatomy, physiology and organ size to humans as well as high reproductive capacity and low maintenance cost. However, several barriers, which include immune rejection, inflammation and coagulative dysfunctions, as well as the cross-species transmission risk of porcine endogenous retrovirus, blocked the pig-to-human xenotransplantation. With the rapid development of genome engineering technologies and the potent immunosuppressive medications in recent years, these barriers could be eliminated through genetic modification of pig genome together with the administration of effective immunosuppressants. A number of candidate genes involved in the regulation of immune response, inflammation and coagulation have been explored to optimize porcine xenograft survival in non-human primate recipients. PERV inactivation in pigs has also been accomplished to firmly address the safety issue in pig-to-human xenotransplantation. Many encouraging preclinical milestones have been achieved with some organs surviving for years. Therefore, the clinical trials of some promising organs, such as islet, kidney and heart, are aimed to be launched in the near future.

Facilitating islet transplantation using a three-step approach with mesenchymal stem cells, encapsulation, and pulsed focused ultrasound

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of a three-step approach that utilizes the application of adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AD-MSCs), encapsulation, and pulsed focused ultrasound (pFUS) to help the engraftment and function of transplanted islets.

METHODS

In step 1, islets were co-cultured with AD-MSCs to form a coating of AD-MSCs on islets: here, AD-MSCs had a cytoprotective effect on islets; in step 2, islets coated with AD-MSCs were conformally encapsulated in a thin layer of alginate using a co-axial air-flow method: here, the capsule enabled AD-MSCs to be in close proximity to islets; in step 3, encapsulated islets coated with AD-MSCs were treated with pFUS: here, pFUS enhanced the secretion of insulin from islets as well as stimulated the cytoprotective effect of AD-MSCs.

RESULTS

Our approach was shown to prevent islet death and preserve islet functionality in vitro. When 175 syngeneic encapsulated islets coated with AD-MSCs were transplanted beneath the kidney capsule of diabetic mice, and then followed every 3 days with pFUS treatment until day 12 post-transplantation, we saw a significant improvement in islet function with diabetic animals re-establishing glycemic control over the course of our study (i.e., 30 days). In addition, our approach was able to enhance islet engraftment by facilitating their revascularization and reducing inflammation.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that our clinically translatable three-step approach is able to improve the function and viability of transplanted islets.

Evaluation of Multi-Layered Pancreatic Islets and Adipose-Derived Stem Cell Sheets Transplanted on Various Sites for Diabetes Treatment

Islet cell transplantation is considered an ideal treatment for insulin-deficient diabetes, but implantation sites are limited and show low graft survival. Cell sheet technology and adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) can be useful tools for improving islet cell transplantation outcomes since both can increase implantation efficacy and graft survival. Herein, the optimal transplantation site in diabetic mice was investigated using islets and stem cell sheets. We constructed multi-layered cell sheets using rat/human islets and human ADSCs. Cell sheets were fabricated using temperature-responsive culture dishes. Islet/ADSC sheet (AI sheet) group showed higher viability and glucose-stimulated insulin secretion than islet-only group. Compared to islet transplantation alone, subcutaneous AI sheet transplantation showed better blood glucose control and CD31+ vascular traits. Because of the adhesive properties of cell sheets, AI sheets were easily applied on liver and peritoneal surfaces. Liver or peritoneal surface grafts showed better glucose control, weight gain, and intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test (IPGTT) profiles than subcutaneous site grafts using both rat and human islets. Stem cell sheets increased the therapeutic efficacy of islets in vivo because mesenchymal stem cells enhance islet function and induce neovascularization around transplanted islets. The liver and peritoneal surface can be used more effectively than the subcutaneous site in future clinical applications.

Gastric submucosal alleviated pro-inflammation cytokines mediated initial dysfunction of islets allografts

BACKGROUND

The liver and renal capsule are the most common site for experimental pancreatic islet transplantation, but it is not optimal. Gastric submucosa space may be an ideal site for islet transplantation; however, whether pro-inflammation factors mediated islet dysfunction could be avoided or alleviated is still unclear.

METHODS

Islets of Sprague Dawley (SD) rat were transplanted into the streptozotocin-induced diabetic SD rats. Transplantation sites included gastric submucosa (GS), intraportal vein (PV) and kidney capsule (KC), and the efficiency of glycemic control and site-specific differences of islet grafts were compared.

RESULTS

With limited number of islets (800 IEQ) transplanted, improvement of recipient glycometabolism was superior in the GS group. When transplanted with 1200 IEQ islets, the survival of islet grafts were significantly prolonged in the GS group (25.87 ± 4.08 days, compared to 15.97 ± 0.83 days and 17.33 ± 1.41 days in PV and KC groups, respectively, P < .05). Compared with the PV group, the levels of IL-1β and TNF-α were significantly depressed in GS group after 12 h transplantation (15.5 ± 0.70 pg/mL and 13.28 ± 2.80 pg/mL vs. 262.26 ± 53.37 pg/mL and 138.51 ± 39.58 pg/mL, P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Gastric submucosal would be a potential ideal site for islet transplantation in rat. Gastric submucosal might alleviate the early islet dysfunction triggered by the IL-1β and TNF-α, and which requires a low number of transplanted islets and have a good glycemic control in return.

Change in Viability and Function of Pancreatic Islets after Coculture with Mesenchymal Stromal Cells: A Systemic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

There is no clear consensus on the effect of coculture of islets with mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) on islet function and viability.

METHODS

We conducted a meta-analysis of relevant studies to evaluate the effect of coculture of islets with MSCs on the function and viability of islets, both in vitro and in vivo. We searched PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases for all relevant studies that compared the effect of coculture of islets with MSCs on the function and viability of islets (language of publication: English; reference period: January 2000-May 2019). Data pertaining to islet function and viability, concentrations of some cytokines, and in vivo experimental outcomes were extracted and compared.

RESULTS

Twenty-four articles were included in the meta-analysis. In comparison to islets cultured alone, coculture of islets with MSCs was associated with a significantly higher islet viability [weighted mean difference (WMD), -15.59; -22.34 to -8.83; P < 0.00001], insulin level (WMD, -5.74; -9.29 to -2.19; P = 0.002), insulin secretion index (WMD, -2.45; -3.70 to -1.21; P = 0.0001), and higher concentrations of interleukin-6 (WMD, -1225.66; -2044.47 to -406.86; P = 0.003) and vascular endothelial growth factor (WMD, -1.19; -2.25 to -0.14; P = 0.03). Direct coculture of islets and MSCs significantly increased islet viability (WMD, -19.82; -26.56 to -13.07; P < 0.00001). In the in vivo experiments, coculture of islets with MSCs induced lower fasting blood glucose level (on postoperative days 21 and 28, WMD, 102.60; 27.14 to 178.05; P = 0.008 and WMD, 121.19; 49.56 to 192.82; P = 0.0009) and better glucose tolerance (blood glucose at 30 minutes after intraperitoneal injection of glucose, WMD, 85.92; 5.33 to 166.51; P = 0.04).

CONCLUSION

Coculture of islets with MSCs improves insulin secretory function of islets and enhances islet viability. Direct coculture of two cells significantly increased islet viability. MSC-based strategy may be beneficial for clinical islet transplantation for type 1 diabetes in the future.

Is the renal subcapsular space the preferred site for clinical porcine islet xenotransplantation? Review article

It can reasonably be anticipated that, within 5-10 years, islet allotransplantation or pig islet xenotransplantation may be the preferred options for β-cell replacement therapy. The portal vein/liver is currently the preferred clinical site for free islet transplantation, constituting 90% of clinical islet transplants. Despite being the site of choice for rodent and some large animal studies, the renal subcapsular space is rarely used clinically, even though the introduction of islets intraportally is not entirely satisfactory (particularly for pig islet xenotransplantation). We questioned why this might be so. Is it perhaps based on prior clinical evidence, or from experience in nonhuman primates? When we have questioned experts in the field, no definitive answers have been forthcoming. We have therefore reviewed the relevant literature, and still cannot find a convincing reason why the renal subcapsular space has been so relatively abandoned as a site for clinical islet transplantation. Owing to its sequestered environment, subcapsular transplantation might avoid some of the remaining challenges of intraportal transplantation. This may be particularly true when using pig islets for xenotransplantation, which are exceptionally pure in comparison to human islets used in auto- or allo-transplantation. With evidence from the literature, we question the notion that the subcapsular space is inhospitable to islet transplantation and suggest that, when porcine islet transplantation is introduced, this site should perhaps be reconsidered.

Bioprinting an Artificial Pancreas for Type 1 Diabetes

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Pancreatic islet cell transplantation is currently the only curative cell therapy for type 1 diabetes mellitus. However, its potential to treat many more patients is limited by several challenges. The emergence of 3D bioprinting technology from recent advances in 3D printing, biomaterials, and cell biology has provided the means to overcome these challenges.

RECENT FINDINGS

3D bioprinting allows for the precise fabrication of complex 3D architectures containing spatially distributed cells, biomaterials (bioink), and bioactive factors. Different strategies to capitalize on this ability have been investigated for the 3D bioprinting of pancreatic islets. In particular, with co-axial bioprinting technology, the co-printability of islets with supporting cells such as endothelial progenitor cells and regulatory T cells, which have been shown to accelerate revascularization of islets and improve the outcome of various transplantations, respectively, has been achieved. 3D bioprinting of islets for generation of an artificial pancreas is a newly emerging field of study with a vast potential to improve islet transplantation.

Quercetin Enhances the Function and Reduces Apoptosis of Mouse Islets

BACKGROUND

Quercetin (QE) is an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, flavonoid compound. It was shown that islets are susceptible to oxidative stress due to their inherent low antioxidant capacity. In the present study, we investigated whether treatment of mouse islets with QE could enhance their function before transplantation.

METHODS

Balb/c mouse islets were treated with various concentrations of QE and their viability, function, and nitric oxide (NO) and the expression of inducible NO synthase (iNOS) were determined before and after cytokine treatment. The expression of antioxidant genes was determined. Apoptosis and apoptosis-associated gene expression was measured using INS-1 cells with or without QE treatment before and after cytokine treatment.

RESULTS

The QE-treated islets and INS-1 cells showed higher cell function compared to untreated control. The expression of heme oxygenase-1, manganese-dependent superoxide dismutase, and B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) were enhanced, and the expression of NO, iNOS, and Bcl-2-associated X protein were reduced before and after cytokine treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results show that QE could enhance the viability and reduce apoptosis of mouse islets and improve their function before transplantation.

Will Genetic Engineering Carry Xenotransplantation of Pig Islets to the Clinic?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Porcine islets represent a potentially attractive beta-cell source for xenotransplantation into patients with type 1 diabetes, who are not eligible to islet allo-transplantation due to a lack of suitable human donor organs. Recent progress in genetic engineering/gene editing of donor pigs provides new opportunities to overcome rejection of xeno-islets, to improve their engraftment and insulin secretion capacity, and to reduce the risk for transmission of porcine endogenous retroviruses. This review summarizes the current issues and progress in islet xenotransplantation with special emphasis on genetically modified/gene edited donor pigs.

RECENT FINDINGS

Attempts to overcome acute rejection of xeno-islets, especially after intraportal transplantation into the liver, include the genetic elimination of specific carbohydrate antigens such as αGal, Neu5Gc, and Sd(a) for which humans and-in part-non-human primates have natural antibodies that bind to these targets leading to activation of complement and coagulation. A complementary approach is the expression of one or more human complement regulatory proteins (hCD46, hCD55, hCD59). Transgenic attempts to overcome cellular rejection of islet xenotransplants include the expression of proteins that inhibit co-stimulation of T cells. Expression of glucagon-like peptide-1 and M3 muscarinic receptors has been shown to increase the insulin secretion of virally transduced porcine islets in vitro and it will be interesting to see the effects of these modifications in transgenic pigs and islet products derived from them. Genome-wide inactivation of porcine endogenous retrovirus (PERV) integrants by mutating their pol genes using CRISPR/Cas9 is a recent approach to reduce the risk for PERV transmission by xeno-islets. Genetic engineering/gene editing of xeno-islet donor pigs facilitated major progress towards clinical islet xenotransplantation. The required set of genetic modifications will depend on the source of islets (fetal/neonatal vs. adult), the mode of delivery (encapsulated vs. free), and the transplantation site.

β Cell Replacement Therapy: The Next 10 Years

β cell replacement with either pancreas or islet transplantation has progressed immensely over the last decades with current 1- and 5-year insulin independence rates of approximately 85% and 50%, respectively. Recent advances are largely attributed to improvements in immunosuppressive regimen, donor selection, and surgical technique. However, both strategies are compromised by a scarce donor source. Xenotransplantation offers a potential solution by providing a theoretically unlimited supply of islets, but clinical application has been limited by concerns for a potent immune response against xenogeneic tissue. β cell clusters derived from embryonic or induced pluripotent stem cells represent another promising unlimited source of insulin producing cells, but clinical application is pending further advances in the function of the β cell like clusters. Exciting developments and rapid progress in all areas of β cell replacement prompted a lively debate by members of the young investigator committee of the International Pancreas and Islet Transplant Association at the 15th International Pancreas and Islet Transplant Association Congress in Melbourne and at the 26th international congress of The Transplant Society in Hong Kong. This international group of young investigators debated which modality of β cell replacement would predominate the landscape in 10 years, and their arguments are summarized here.

Effects of Transplanted Islets Nano-Encapsulated with Hyperbranched Polyethylene Glycol and Heparin on Microenvironment Reconstruction and Glucose Control

The microenvironment of pancreatic islets gets disrupted during enzyme digestion and causes islets to remain in a vulnerable state, leading to poor outcome in the initial days of transplantation. To avoid immune invasion while allowing the reconstruction of the microenvironment of the transplanted site, we propose immunoisolation polymers, which can nanoencapsulate islets quickly without cytotoxicity. Here, nonhuman primate (NHP) islets were nanoencapsulated with hyperbranched polyethylene glycol (hb-PEG) and heparin by layer-by-layer technology and transplanted into the kidney subcapsular space of diabetic C57BL/6 mice. An immunosuppressive drug protocol was applied to increase the survival time until the animals were sacrificed. The recipients of NHP islets exhibited high nonfasting blood glucose level (BGL) for 2-3 weeks, which was normalized afterward. Immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis revealed an immature vascular basement membrane and cell surface integrins directly associated with poor initial insulin production. The transplanted grafts regained their own microenvironment within a month without any outside stimuli. No lymphocyte infiltration was observed in the grafts at any time. Humoral and cell-mediated immune responses were prominently diminished by the hb-PEG/Heparin nanoencapsulated islets. Immunoisolation accompanied by an immunosuppressive drug protocol protects islets by helping them avoid immunogenesis while at the same time allowing them to reconstruct their microenvironment.

Layer-by-Layer Heparinization of the Cell Surface by Using Heparin-Binding Peptide Functionalized Human Serum Albumin

Layer-by-layer heparinization of therapeutic cells prior to transplantation is an effective way to inhibit the instant blood-mediated inflammatory reactions (IBMIRs), which are the major cause of early cell graft loss during post-transplantation. Here, a conjugate of heparin-binding peptide (HBP) and human serum albumin (HSA), HBP-HSA, was synthesized by using heterobifunctional crosslinker. After the first heparin layer was coated on human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) by means of the HBP-polyethylene glycol-phospholipid conjugate, HBP-HSA and heparin were then applied to the cell surface sequentially to form multiple layers. The immobilization and retention of heparin were analyzed by confocal microscopy and flow cytometry, respectively, and the cytotoxity of HBP-HSA was further evaluated by cell viability assay. Results indicated that heparin was successfully introduced to the cell surface in a layer-by-layer way and retained for at least 24 h, while the cytotoxity of HBP-HSA was negligible at the working concentration. Accordingly, this conjugate provides a promising method for co-immobilization of heparin and HSA to the cell surface under physiological conditions with improved biocompatibility.

The Spleen as an Optimal Site for Islet Transplantation and a Source of Mesenchymal Stem Cells

This review demonstrates the unique potential of the spleen as an optimal site for islet transplantation and as a source of mesenchymal stem cells. Islet transplantation is a cellular replacement therapy used to treat severe diabetes mellitus; however, its clinical outcome is currently unsatisfactory. Selection of the most appropriate transplantation site is a major factor affecting the clinical success of this therapy. The spleen has long been studied as a candidate site for islet transplantation. Its advantages include physiological insulin drainage and regulation of immunity, and it has recently also been shown to contribute to the regeneration of transplanted islets. However, the efficacy of transplantation in the spleen is lower than that of intraportal transplantation, which is the current representative method of clinical islet transplantation. Safer and more effective methods of islet transplantation need to be established to allow the spleen to be used for clinical transplantation. The spleen is also of interest as a mesenchymal stem cell reservoir. Splenic mesenchymal stem cells contribute to the repair of damaged tissue, and their infusion may thus be a promising therapy for autoimmune diseases, including type 1 diabetes mellitus and Sjogren’s syndrome.

Early barriers to neonatal porcine islet engraftment in a dual transplant model

Porcine islet xenografts have the potential to provide an inexhaustible source of islets for β cell replacement. Proof-of-concept has been established in nonhuman primates. However, significant barriers to xenoislet transplantation remain, including the poorly understood instant blood-mediated inflammatory reaction and a thorough understanding of early xeno-specific immune responses. A paucity of data exist comparing xeno-specific immune responses with alloislet (AI) responses in primates. We recently developed a dual islet transplant model, which enables direct histologic comparison of early engraftment immunobiology. In this study, we investigate early immune responses to neonatal porcine islet (NPI) xenografts compared with rhesus islet allografts at 1 hour, 24 hours, and 7 days. Within the first 24 hours after intraportal infusion, we identified greater apoptosis (caspase 3 activity and TUNEL [terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling])-positive cells) of NPIs compared with AIs. Macrophage infiltration was significantly greater at 24 hours compared with 1 hour in both NPI (wild-type) and AIs. At 7 days, IgM and macrophages were highly specific for NPIs (α1,3-galactosyltransferase knockout) compared with AIs. These findings demonstrate an augmented macrophage and antibody response toward xenografts compared with allografts. These data may inform future immune or genetic manipulations required to improve xenoislet engraftment.

Tetrahydrocurcumin Enhances Islet Cell Function and Attenuates Apoptosis in Mouse Islets

BACKGROUND

The transplantation of isolated pancreatic islets is a promising treatment for diabetes. Curcumin has been used for its pharmacologic effects, such as antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory activities. Tetrahydrocurcumin (THC), one of the major metabolites of curcumin, has been reported to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. This study examines the hypothesis that preoperative THC treatment can attenuate ischemic damage and apoptosis before islet transplantation.

METHODS

Islets isolated from Balb/c mice were randomly divided into 2 groups and cultured in medium supplemented with or without THC. In vitro islet viability and function were assessed. After treatment with a cytokine cocktail consisting of tumor necrosis factor-α, interferon-β, and interleukin-1β, islet cell viability, function, and apoptotic status were determined. Proteins related to apoptosis were analyzed using INS-1 cell after streptozocin treatment.

RESULTS

There was no difference in cell viability between the 2 groups. Islets cultured in the medium supplemented with THC showed 1.3-fold higher glucose-induced insulin secretion than the islets cultured in the medium without THC. After treatment with a cytokine cocktail, glucose-induced insulin release, and NO of the islets were significantly improved in THC-treated islets compared with islets not treated with THC. Apoptosis was significantly decreased, and B-cell lymphoma-2 was elevated in the THC-treated group. The streptozocin-treated INS-1 cell produced significantly higher levels of and B-cell lymphoma-2-associated X protein, caspase-3, and caspase-9 than INS-1 treated with THC.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that preoperative THC administration enhances islet function before transplantation and attenuates the cytokine-induced damage associated with apoptosis.

Pre-clinical results in pig-to-non-human primate islet xenotransplantation using anti-CD40 antibody (2C10R4)-based immunosuppression

BACKGROUND

Islet transplantation is an effective therapy for selected patients with type 1 diabetes with labile glycemic control and hypoglycemic unawareness, but donor organs are limited. Islet xenotransplantation using porcine islets will potentially solve this problem. Although successful proof of concept studies using clinically inapplicable anti-CD154 monoclonal antibody (mAb) in pig-to-non-human primate (NHP) islet xenotransplantation has been demonstrated by several groups worldwide, potentially clinically applicable anti-CD40 (2C10R4) mAb-based studies have not been reported.

METHODS

Nine streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rhesus monkeys were transplanted with adult porcine islets isolated from designated pathogen-free (DPF) miniature pigs. They were treated with anti-CD40 mAb-based immunosuppressive regimen and were divided into 3 groups: anti-CD40 only group (n = 2), belatacept group (anti-CD40 mAb+belatacept, n = 2), and tacrolimus group (anti-CD40 mAb+tacrolimus, n = 5). All monkeys received anti-thymocyte globulin (ATG), cobra venom factor (CVF), adalimumab, and sirolimus. Blood glucose levels (BGL) and serum porcine C-peptide concentrations were measured. Humoral and cellular immune responses were assessed by ELISA and ELISPOT, respectively. Liver biopsy and subsequent immunohistochemistry were conducted.

RESULTS

All animals restored normoglycemia immediately after porcine islet transplantation and finished the follow-up without any severe adverse effects except for one animal (R092). Most animals maintained their body weight. Median survival, as defined by a serum porcine C-peptide concentration of >0.15 ng/mL, was 31, 27, and 60 days for anti-CD40 only, belatacept, and tacrolimus groups, respectively. Anti-αGal IgG levels in serum and the number of interferon-γ secreting T cells in peripheral blood mononuclear cells did not increase in most animals.

CONCLUSION

These results showed that anti-CD40 mAb combined with tacrolimus was effective in prolonging porcine islet graft survival, but anti-CD40 mAb was not as effective as anti-CD154 mAb in terms of preventing early islet loss.

Pig tissue factor pathway inhibitor α fusion immunoglobulin inhibits pig tissue factor activity in human plasma moderately more efficiently than the human counterpart

OBJECTIVE

To determine the efficacy of soluble pig tissue factor pathway inhibitor fusion immunoglobulin (TFPI-Ig) in blocking pig to human xenogeneic blood coagulation.

RESULTS

To generate pig TFPI-Ig or human TFPI-Ig, expression vector containing cDNA encoding pig TFPIα or human TFPIα combined with human constant Ig heavy chain region was cloned and introduced into CHO cells. After purification of pig TFPI-Ig and human TFPI-Ig, the inhibition of each recombinant protein on pig tissue factor (TF)-mediated blood coagulation was examined in human plasma. Compared to human TFPI-Ig, pig TFPI-Ig inhibited pig TF activity and thrombin generation in human plasma more efficiently at certain concentrations.

CONCLUSIONS

Pig TFPI-Ig will be be useful as a therapeutic protein to treat pig to human xenogeneic blood coagulation.

Pig-to-Primate Islet Xenotransplantation: Past, Present, and Future

Islet allotransplantation results in increasing success in treating type 1 diabetes, but the shortage of deceased human donor pancreata limits progress. Islet xenotransplantation, using pigs as a source of islets, is a promising approach to overcome this limitation. The greatest obstacle is the primate immune/inflammatory response to the porcine (pig) islets, which may take the form of rapid early graft rejection (the instant blood-mediated inflammatory reaction) or T-cell-mediated rejection. These problems are being resolved by the genetic engineering of the source pigs combined with improved immunosuppressive therapy. The results of pig-to-diabetic nonhuman primate islet xenotransplantation are steadily improving, with insulin independence being achieved for periods >1 year. An alternative approach is to isolate islets within a micro- or macroencapsulation device aimed at protecting them from the human recipient's immune response. Clinical trials using this approach are currently underway. This review focuses on the major aspects of pig-to-primate islet xenotransplantation and its potential for treatment of type 1 diabetes.

The Different Faces of the Pancreatic Islet

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) patients who receive pancreatic islet transplant experience significant improvement in their quality-of-life. This comes primarily through improved control of blood sugar levels, restored awareness of hypoglycemia, and prevention of serious and potentially life-threatening diabetes-associated complications, such as kidney failure, heart and vascular disease, stroke, nerve damage, and blindness. Therefore, beta cell replacement through transplantation of isolated islets is an important option in the treatment of T1D. However, lasting success of this promising therapy depends on durable survival and efficacy of the transplanted islets, which are directly influenced by the islet isolation procedures. Thus, isolating pancreatic islets with consistent and reliable quality is critical in the clinical application of islet transplantation.Quality of isolated islets is important in pre-clinical studies as well, as efforts to advance and improve clinical outcomes of islet transplant therapy have relied heavily on animal models ranging from rodents, to pigs, to nonhuman primates. As a result, pancreatic islets have been isolated from these and other species and used in a variety of in vitro or in vivo applications for this and other research purposes. Protocols for islet isolation have been somewhat similar across species, especially, in mammals. However, given the increasing evidence about the distinct structural and functional features of human and mouse islets, using similar methods of islet isolation may contribute to inconsistencies in the islet quality, immunogenicity, and experimental outcomes. This may also contribute to the discrepancies commonly observed between pre-clinical findings and clinical outcomes. Therefore, it is prudent to consider the particular features of pancreatic islets from different species when optimizing islet isolation protocols.In this chapter, we explore the structural and functional features of pancreatic islets from mice, pigs, nonhuman primates, and humans because of their prevalent use in nonclinical, preclinical, and clinical applications.

Executive Summary of IPITA-TTS Opinion Leaders Report on the Future of β-Cell Replacement

The International Pancreas and Islet Transplant Association (IPITA), in conjunction with the Transplantation Society (TTS), convened a workshop to consider the future of pancreas and islet transplantation in the context of potential competing technologies that are under development, including the artificial pancreas, transplantation tolerance, xenotransplantation, encapsulation, stem cell derived beta cells, beta cell proliferation, and endogenous regeneration. Separate workgroups for each topic and then the collective group reviewed the state of the art, hurdles to application, and proposed research agenda for each therapy that would allow widespread application. Herein we present the executive summary of this workshop that focuses on obstacles to application and the research agenda to overcome them; the full length article with detailed background for each topic is published as an online supplement to Transplantation.

Physiologic Doses of Bilirubin Contribute to Tolerance of Islet Transplants by Suppressing the Innate Immune Response

Bilirubin has been recognized as a powerful cytoprotectant when used at physiologic doses and was recently shown to have immunomodulatory effects in islet allograft transplantation, conveying donor-specific tolerance in a murine model. We hypothesized that bilirubin, an antioxidant, acts to suppress the innate immune response to islet allografts through two mechanisms: 1) by suppressing graft release of damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) and inflammatory cytokines, and 2) by producing a tolerogenic phenotype in antigen-presenting cells. Bilirubin was administered intraperitoneally before pancreatic procurement or was added to culture media after islet isolation in AJ mice. Islets were exposed to transplant-associated nutrient deprivation and hypoxia. Bilirubin significantly decreased islet cell death after isolation and hypoxic stress. Bilirubin supplementation of islet media also decreased the release of DAMPs (HMGB1), inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and IL-6), and chemokines (MCP-1). Cytoprotection was mediated by the antioxidant effects of bilirubin. Treatment of macrophages with bilirubin induced a regulatory phenotype, with increased expression of PD-L1. Coculture of these macrophages with splenocytes led to expansion of Foxp3+ Tregs. In conclusion, exogenous bilirubin supplementation showed cytoprotective and antioxidant effects in a relevant model of islet isolation and hypoxic stress. Suppression of DAMP release, alterations in cytokine profiles, and tolerogenic effects on macrophages suggest that the use of this natural antioxidant may provide a method of preconditioning to improve outcomes after allograft transplantation.

Non-invasive, in vitro analysis of islet insulin production enabled by an optical porous silicon biosensor

A label-free porous silicon (pSi) based, optical biosensor, using both an antibody and aptamer bioreceptor motif has been developed for the detection of insulin. Two parallel biosensors were designed and optimised independently, based on each bioreceptor. Both bioreceptors were covalently attached to a thermally hydrosilylated pSi surface though amide coupling, with unreacted surface area rendered stable and low fouling by incorporation of PEG moieties. The insulin detection ability of each biosensor was determined using interferometric reflectance spectroscopy, using a range of different media both with and without serum. Sensing performance was compared in terms of response value, response time and limit of detection (LOD) for each platform. In order to demonstrate the capability of the best performing biosensor to detect insulin from real samples, an in vitro investigation with the aptamer-modified surface was performed. This biosensor was exposed to buffer conditioned by glucose-stimulated human islets, with the result showing a positive response and a high degree of selectivity towards insulin capture. The obtained results correlated well with the ELISA used in the clinic for assaying glucose-stimulated insulin release from donor islets. We anticipate that this type of sensor can be applied as a rapid point-of-use biosensor to assess the quality of donor islets in terms of their insulin production efficiency, prior to transplantation.

Red Ginseng Administration Before Islet Isolation Attenuates Apoptosis and Improves Islet Function and Transplant Outcome in a Syngeneic Mouse Marginal Islet Mass Model

BACKGROUND

Transplantation of isolated islets is a promising treatment for diabetes. Red ginseng (RG) is steamed ginseng and has been reported to enhance insulin secretion-stimulating and anti-apoptotic activities in pancreatic β-cells. In this study, we examined the hypothesis that pre-operative RG treatment enhances islet cell function and anti-apoptosis and investigated whether RG improves islet engraftment by transplant of a marginal mass of syngeneic islets pretreated with RG in diabetic mice.

METHODS

Balb/c mice were randomly divided into 2 groups, and 1 group was administered RG (400 mg/kg/day orally) for 7 days before islet isolation. In vitro islet viability and function were assessed. After cytokine treatment, cell viability, function, and apoptosis of islet cells were analyzed. Furthermore, we studied the effects of RG in a syngeneic islet graft model. A marginal mass of syngeneic mouse islets was transplanted into diabetic hosts.

RESULTS

Islet pretreatment with RG showed 1.4-fold higher glucose-induced insulin secretion than did control islets. RG pretreatment upregulated B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) expression and downregulated Bcl-associated X protein (BAX), caspase-3, and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression. Glucose-induced insulin release, NO, and apoptosis were significantly improved in RG-pretreated islets compared with cytokine-treated islets. RG-pretreated mice exhibited improved marginal mass islet graft survival compared with controls.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that pre-operative RG administration enhanced islet function before transplantation and attenuated cytokine-induced damage associated with apoptosis. These studies indicate that inhibition of apoptosis by RG significantly improved islet cell and graft function after isolation and transplantation, respectively.

Improvement of islet graft function using liraglutide is correlated with its anti-inflammatory properties

Background and Purpose

Liraglutide improves the metabolic control of diabetic animals after islet transplantation. However, the mechanisms underlying this effect remain unknown. The objective of this study was to evaluate the anti‐inflammatory and anti‐oxidative properties of liraglutide on rat pancreatic islets in vitro and in vivo.

Experimental Approach

In vitro, rat islets were incubated with 10 μmol·L⁻¹ liraglutide for 12 and 24 h. Islet viability functionality was assessed. The anti‐inflammatory properties of liraglutide were evaluated by measuring CCL2, IL‐6 and IL‐10 secretion and macrophage chemotaxis. The anti‐oxidative effect of liraglutide was evaluated by measuring intracellular ROS and the total anti‐oxidative capacity. In vivo, 1000 islets were cultured for 24 h with or without liraglutide and then transplanted into the liver of streptozotocin‐induced diabetic Lewis rats with or without injections of liraglutide. Effects of liraglutide on metabolic control were evaluated for 1 month.

Key Results

Islet viability and function were preserved and enhanced with liraglutide treatment. Liraglutide decreased CCL2 and IL‐6 secretion and macrophage activation after 12 h of culture, while IL‐10 secretion was unchanged. However, intracellular levels of ROS were increased with liraglutide treatment at 12 h. This result was correlated with an increase of anti‐oxidative capacity. In vivo, liraglutide decreased macrophage infiltration and reduced fasting blood glucose in transplanted rats.

Conclusions and Implications

The beneficial effects of liraglutide on pancreatic islets appear to be linked to its anti‐inflammatory and anti‐oxidative properties. These findings indicated that analogues of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 could be used to improve graft survival.

Developmental endothelial locus-1 modulates platelet-monocyte interactions and instant blood-mediated inflammatory reaction in islet transplantation

Platelet-monocyte interactions are strongly implicated in thrombo-inflammatory injury by actively contributing to intravascular inflammation, leukocyte recruitment to inflamed sites, and the amplification of the procoagulant response. Instant blood-mediated inflammatory reaction (IBMIR) represents thrombo-inflammatory injury elicited upon pancreatic islet transplantation (islet-Tx), thereby dramatically affecting transplant survival and function. Developmental endothelial locus-1 (Del-1) is a functionally versatile endothelial cell-derived homeostatic factor with anti-inflammatory properties, but its potential role in IBMIR has not been previously addressed. Here, we establish Del-1 as a novel inhibitor of IBMIR using a whole blood-islet model and a syngeneic murine transplantation model. Indeed, Del-1 pre-treatment of blood before addition of islets diminished coagulation activation and islet damage as assessed by C-peptide release. Consistently, intraportal islet-Tx in transgenic mice with endothelial cell-specific overexpression of Del-1 resulted in a marked decrease of monocytes and platelet-monocyte aggregates in the transplanted tissues, relative to those in wild-type recipients. Mechanistically, Del-1 decreased platelet-monocyte aggregate formation, by specifically blocking the interaction between monocyte Mac-1-integrin and platelet GPIb. Our findings reveal a hitherto unknown role of Del-1 in the regulation of platelet-monocyte interplay and the subsequent heterotypic aggregate formation in the context of IBMIR. Therefore, Del-1 may represent a novel approach to prevent or mitigate the adverse reactions mediated through thrombo-inflammatory pathways in islet-Tx and perhaps other inflammatory disorders involving platelet-leukocyte aggregate formation.

Beta-cell replacement therapy: current outcomes and future landscape

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This article provides a summary of the current outcomes of β-cell replacement strategies, an algorithm for choosing a specific modality while highlighting associated advantages and disadvantages, and outlines remaining challenges and areas of active investigation in β-cell replacement therapy.

RECENT FINDINGS

The most recent reports of islet cell allotransplantation have shown improvements over previous eras and now rival some outcomes of pancreas alone transplantation. Active areas of investigation are focused on improving techniques for islet isolation, graft monitoring, and managing challenges posed by the innate and alloimmune systems.

SUMMARY

Patients with insulin-dependent diabetes who continue to experience life threatening hypoglycemia despite maximal medical management can benefit from β-cell replacement. Emerging nontransplant technologies have not provided a physiologic euglycemic state to the extent offered by transplantation. Islet transplantation eliminates hypoglycemic episodes/unawareness, facilitates normalization of hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), decreases microvascular disease progression, and improves quality of life for patients with problematic diabetes. Mid- and long-term outcomes of islet transplantation performed at expert centers approximate those of registry reports of solitary pancreas transplant, whereas the complication profile is quite favorable.

First update of the International Xenotransplantation Association consensus statement on conditions for undertaking clinical trials of porcine islet products in type 1 diabetes--Chapter 2b: genetically modified source pigs

Genetic modification of the source pig offers the opportunity to improve the engraftment and survival of islet xenografts. The type of modification can be tailored to the transplant setting; for example, intraportal islet xenografts have been shown to benefit from the expression of anticoagulant and anti-inflammatory transgenes, whereas cytoprotective transgenes are probably more relevant for encapsulated islets. The rapid development of pig genetic engineering, particularly with the introduction of genome editing techniques such as CRISPR-Cas, has accelerated the generation of new pig lines with multiple modifications. With pre-clinical testing in progress, it is an opportune time to consider any implications of genetic modification for the conditions for undertaking clinical trials. Obviously, the stringent requirements to fulfill designated pathogen-free status that are applied to wild-type pigs will apply equally to genetically modified (GM) source pigs. In addition, it is important from a safety perspective that the genetic modifications are characterized at the molecular level (e.g., integration site, absence of off-target mutations), the phenotypic level (e.g., durability and stability of transgene expression), and the functional level (e.g., protection of islets in vitro or in vivo, absence of detrimental effects on insulin secretion). The assessment of clinical trial protocols using GM pig islets will need to be performed on a case-by-case basis, taking into account a range of factors including the particular genetic modification(s) and the site and method of delivery.

First update of the International Xenotransplantation Association consensus statement on conditions for undertaking clinical trials of porcine islet products in type 1 diabetes--Chapter 6: patient selection for pilot clinical trials of islet xenotransplantation

Patients in whom type 1 diabetes is complicated by impaired awareness of hypoglycemia and recurrent episodes of severe hypoglycemia are candidates for islet or pancreas transplantation if severe hypoglycemia persists after completion of a structured stepped care approach or a formalized medical optimization run-in period that provides access to hypoglycemia-specific education including behavioral therapies, insulin analogs, and diabetes technologies under the close supervision of a specialist hypoglycemia service. Patients with type 1 diabetes and end-stage renal failure who cannot meet clinically appropriate glycemic goals or continue to experience severe hypoglycemia after completion of a formalized medical optimization program under the guidance of an expert diabetes care team are candidates for islet or pancreas transplantation either simultaneously with or after a previous kidney transplant. Similarly, patients with type 2 diabetes and problematic hypoglycemia or renal failure who meet these criteria are considered candidates for islet replacement. Likewise, patients with pancreatectomy-induced diabetes in whom an islet autograft was not available or deemed inappropriate are candidates for islet or pancreas transplantation if extreme glycemic lability persists despite best medical therapy. To justify participation of these transplant candidates in early-phase trials of porcine islet cell products, lack of timely access to islet or pancreas allotransplantation due to allosensitization, high islet dose requirements, or other factors, or alternatively, a more favorable benefit-risk determination associated with the xenoislet than the alloislet or allopancreas transplant must be demonstrated. Additionally, in non-uremic xenoislet recipients, the risks associated with diabetes must be perceived to be more serious than the risks associated with the xenoislet product and the rejection prophylaxis, and in xenoislet recipients with renal failure, the xenoislet product and immunosuppression must not impact negatively on renal transplant outcomes. The most appropriate patient group for islet xenotransplantation trials will be defined by the specific characteristics of each investigational xenoislet product and related technologies applied for preventing rejection. Selecting recipients who are more likely to experience prolonged benefits associated with the islet xenograft will help these patients comply with lifelong monitoring and other public health measures.

The pathobiology of pig-to-primate xenotransplantation: a historical review

The immunologic barriers to successful xenotransplantation are related to the presence of natural anti-pig antibodies in humans and non-human primates that bind to antigens expressed on the transplanted pig organ (the most important of which is galactose-α1,3-galactose [Gal]), and activate the complement cascade, which results in rapid destruction of the graft, a process known as hyperacute rejection. High levels of elicited anti-pig IgG may develop if the adaptive immune response is not prevented by adequate immunosuppressive therapy, resulting in activation and injury of the vascular endothelium. The transplantation of organs and cells from pigs that do not express the important Gal antigen (α1,3-galactosyltransferase gene-knockout [GTKO] pigs) and express one or more human complement-regulatory proteins (hCRP, e.g., CD46, CD55), when combined with an effective costimulation blockade-based immunosuppressive regimen, prevents early antibody-mediated and cellular rejection. However, low levels of anti-non-Gal antibody and innate immune cells and/or platelets may initiate the development of a thrombotic microangiopathy in the graft that may be associated with a consumptive coagulopathy in the recipient. This pathogenic process is accentuated by the dysregulation of the coagulation-anticoagulation systems between pigs and primates. The expression in GTKO/hCRP pigs of a human coagulation-regulatory protein, for example, thrombomodulin, is increasingly being associated with prolonged pig graft survival in non-human primates. Initial clinical trials of islet and corneal xenotransplantation are already underway, and trials of pig kidney or heart transplantation are anticipated within the next few years.

Combination strategy of multi-layered surface camouflage using hyperbranched polyethylene glycol and immunosuppressive drugs for the prevention of immune reactions against transplanted porcine islets

This study suggests a novel method of stabilizing fragile porcine islets to prevent the dissociation after isolation and reducing immune cell invasion in a combination therapy of 'surface camouflaging' and immunosuppressive drugs (FK506, Rapamycin, MR-1, anti-CD19 mAb, and Clodrosome(®)) to effectively alleviate overall immune reactions against xenotransplanted porcine islets. The surface camouflage of pancreatic islets using biocompatible materials improved stabilization of pancreatic islet and prevented the infiltration of immune cells. Firstly, the surface of porcine islets was camouflaged by SH-6-arm-PEG-lipid and gelatin-catechol (artificial extracellular matrix) in order to stabilize the fragile isolated islets. Secondly, three different PEG layers (6-arm-PEG-SH, 6-arm-PEG-catechol, and linear PEG-SH) were chemically conjugated onto the surface of the stabilized porcine islets. Both artificial extracellular matrix (artificial ECM) and PEGylation effectively covered the surface of porcine islets without increasing the size of the whole islet. In addition, the viability and functionality of the islets were not affected by this multi-layer surface modification. The multi-layer modification significantly reduced the attachment of human serum albumin, fibronectin, and immunoglobulin G in comparison to the control collagen surface. The combination effect of multi-layer PEGylation and cocktailed immunosuppressive drugs on the survival time of the transplanted islets was assessed in a xenogeneic porcine-to-mouse model. The median survival time (MST) of 'artificial ECM + PEGylation' group was 4-fold increased compared to that of control group. In addition, the MST of 'artificial ECM + PEGylation + drug' group was 2.16-fold increased, compared to the 'control + drug' group. In conclusion, we proposed a novel porcine islet transplantation protocol using surface multi-layer modification and cocktailed immunosuppressive drugs, for stabilization and immunoprotection against xenogeneic immune reactions.

APT070 (mirococept), a membrane-localizing C3 convertase inhibitor, attenuates early human islet allograft damage in vitro and in vivo in a humanized mouse model

Background and Purpose

A major obstacle to islet cell transplantation is the early loss of transplanted islets resulting from the instant blood‐mediated inflammation reaction (IBMIR). The activation of complement pathways plays a central role in IBMIR. The aim of this study was to test the inhibitory effect of “painting” human islets with APT070, a membrane‐localizing C3 convertase inhibitor, on inflammation evoked by exposure to human serum in vitro and by transplantation in vivo in a humanized diabetic mouse model.

Experimental Approach

In vitro, human islets pre‐incubated with APT070 were exposed to allogeneic whole blood. In vivo, similarly treated islets were transplanted underneath the kidney capsule of streptozotocin‐induced diabetic NOD‐SCID IL2rγ^−/− mice that had been reconstituted with human CD34⁺ stem cells. Complement activation and islet hormone content were assayed using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays. Supernatants and sera were assayed for cytokines using cytometric beads array. Morphology of the islets incubated with human serum in vitro and in graft‐bearing kidney were evaluated using immunofluorescence staining.

Key Results

Pre‐incubation with APT070 decreased C‐peptide release and iC3b production in vitro, with diminished deposition of C4d and C5b‐9 in islets embedded in blood clots. In vivo, the APT070‐treated islets maintained intact structure and showed less infiltration of inflammatory cells than untreated islets. The pretreatments also significantly reduced pro‐inflammatory cytokines in supernatants and sera.

Conclusions and Implications

Pre‐treatment of islets with APT070 could reduce intra‐islet inflammation with accompanying preservation of insulin secretion by beta cells. APT070 could be as a potential therapeutic tool in islet transplantation.