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Zhang L, Hoyos IA, Zubler C, Rieben R, Constantinescu M, Olariu R. Challenges and opportunities in vascularized composite allotransplantation of joints: a systematic literature review. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1179195. [PMID: 37275912 PMCID: PMC10235447 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1179195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Joint allotransplantation (JA) within the field of vascularized composite allotransplantation (VCA) holds great potential for functional and non-prosthetic reconstruction of severely damaged joints. However, clinical use of JA remains limited due to the immune rejection associated with all forms of allotransplantation. In this study, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of JA through a systematic review of clinical, animal, and immunological studies on this topic. Methods We conducted a systematic literature review in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines to identify relevant articles in PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases. The results were analyzed, and potential future prospects were discussed in detail. Results Our review included 14 articles describing relevant developments in JA. Currently, most JA-related research is being performed in small animal models, demonstrating graft survival and functional restoration with short-term immunosuppression. In human patients, only six knee allotransplantations have been performed to date, with all grafts ultimately failing and a maximum graft survival of 56 months. Conclusion Research on joint allotransplantation has been limited over the last 20 years due to the rarity of clinical applications, the complex nature of surgical procedures, and uncertain outcomes stemming from immune rejection. However, the key to overcoming these challenges lies in extending graft survival and minimizing immunosuppressive side effects. With the emergence of new immunosuppressive strategies, the feasibility and clinical potential of vascularized joint allotransplantation warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Zhang
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Inselspital University Hospital Bern, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Center, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Isabel Arenas Hoyos
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Inselspital University Hospital Bern, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Cédric Zubler
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Inselspital University Hospital Bern, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Robert Rieben
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Mihai Constantinescu
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Inselspital University Hospital Bern, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Radu Olariu
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Inselspital University Hospital Bern, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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Knoedler L, Knoedler S, Panayi AC, Lee CAA, Sadigh S, Huelsboemer L, Stoegner VA, Schroeter A, Kern B, Mookerjee V, Lian CG, Tullius SG, Murphy GF, Pomahac B, Kauke-Navarro M. Cellular activation pathways and interaction networks in vascularized composite allotransplantation. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1179355. [PMID: 37266446 PMCID: PMC10230044 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1179355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascularized composite allotransplantation (VCA) is an evolving field of reconstructive surgery that has revolutionized the treatment of patients with devastating injuries, including those with limb losses or facial disfigurement. The transplanted units are typically comprised of different tissue types, including skin, mucosa, blood and lymphatic vasculature, muscle, and bone. It is widely accepted that the antigenicity of some VCA components, such as skin, is particularly potent in eliciting a strong recipient rejection response following transplantation. The fine line between tolerance and rejection of the graft is orchestrated by different cell types, including both donor and recipient-derived lymphocytes, macrophages, and other immune and donor-derived tissue cells (e.g., endothelium). Here, we delineate the role of different cell and tissue types during VCA rejection. Rejection of VCA grafts and the necessity of life-long multidrug immunosuppression remains one of the major challenges in this field. This review sheds light on recent developments in decoding the cellular signature of graft rejection in VCA and how these may, ultimately, influence the clinical management of VCA patients by way of novel therapies that target specific cellular processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonard Knoedler
- Department of Plastic, Hand and Reconstructive Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Yale New Haven Hospital, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Samuel Knoedler
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Yale New Haven Hospital, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic Surgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Adriana C. Panayi
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic Surgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Hand, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Microsurgery, Burn Center, BG Trauma Center Ludwigshafen, University of Heidelberg, Ludwigshafen, Germany
| | - Catherine A. A. Lee
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Sam Sadigh
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Lioba Huelsboemer
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Yale New Haven Hospital, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Viola A. Stoegner
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Yale New Haven Hospital, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
- Department of Plastic, Aesthetic, Hand and Reconstructive Surgery, Burn Center, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Andreas Schroeter
- Department of Plastic, Aesthetic, Hand and Reconstructive Surgery, Burn Center, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- Division of Transplant Surgery, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Barbara Kern
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Vikram Mookerjee
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Yale New Haven Hospital, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Christine G. Lian
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Stefan G. Tullius
- Division of Transplant Surgery, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - George F. Murphy
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Bohdan Pomahac
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Yale New Haven Hospital, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Martin Kauke-Navarro
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Yale New Haven Hospital, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
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A Systematic Review of the Reported Complications Related to Facial and Upper Extremity Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation. J Surg Res 2023; 281:164-175. [PMID: 36162189 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2022.08.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Twenty three years after the first successful upper extremity transplantation, the role of vascularized composite allotransplantation (VCA) in the world of transplantation remains controversial. Face and upper extremity reconstruction via transplantation have become successful options for highly selected patients with severe tissue and functional deficit when conventional reconstructive options are no longer available. Despite clear benefit in these situations, VCA has a significant potential for complications that are more frequent when compared to visceral organ transplantation. This study intended to perform an updated systematic review on such complications. MATERIALS AND METHODS MEDLINE database via PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Library were searched. Face and upper extremity VCA performed between 1998 and 2021 were included in the study. Relevant media and press conferences reports were also included. Complications related to face and upper extremity VCA were recorded and reviewed including their clinical characteristics and complications. RESULTS One hundred fifteen patients underwent facial (43%) or upper extremity (57%) transplantation. Overall, the surgical complication rate was 23%. Acute and chronic rejection was identified in 89% and 11% of patients, respectively. Fifty eight percent of patients experienced opportunistic infection. Impaired glucose metabolism was the most common immunosuppression-related complication other than infection. Nineteen percent of patients ultimately experienced partial or complete allograft loss. CONCLUSIONS Complications related to VCA are a significant source of morbidity and potential mortality. Incidence of such complications is higher than previously reported and should be strongly emphasized in patient consent process. Strict patient selection criteria, complex preoperative evaluation, consideration of alternatives, and thorough disclosure to patients should be routinely performed prior to VCA indication.
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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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Shammas RL, Huh J, Huber J, Mithani SK. Evaluating Treatment Preferences and Perceptions of a Prosthetic Versus a Transplanted Hand: A Conjoint Analysis-Based Study. Ann Plast Surg 2022; 88:99-104. [PMID: 34225311 DOI: 10.1097/sap.0000000000002949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study used a conjoint analysis-based survey to assess which factors are most influential when considering treatment with a prosthesis or transplant after a unilateral hand amputation. METHODS Overall, 469 respondents were recruited using Amazon Mechanical Turk and asked to assume that they experienced a hand amputation. To determine preferences for a prosthetic, respondents chose among 11 pairs of alternatives with variations in the following attributes: appearance, function, maintenance, and learning time. Respondents were then presented with descriptions of the risks and outcomes of hand transplantation. The most compelling reasons for and against a transplant were determined and characteristics predictive of support for a transplant were identified. RESULTS The most important attributes for a prosthesis were "lifelike appearance" and "myolectric function." For hand transplantation, respondents were most concerned about immunosuppression side effects (n = 323, 69%) and the intense nature of surgery (n = 275, 59%), whereas the most positive benefit was the concept of the transplant being "natural" (n = 339, 72%). When faced with the choice of a hand transplant or a prosthetic, approximately 50% of respondents chose a transplantation. Younger age, previous medical experiences, a perceived "familiarity with medical issues," and the regular attendance of religious services were associated with strong support for a hand transplantation (P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS When considering a hand prosthesis, respondents are motivated most by appearance and function. Meanwhile, with hand transplantation, the risks of immunosuppression and the intense nature of surgery and recovery are predominant concerns. These findings may help inform patient-physician discussions when considering treatment after unilateral hand amputation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronnie L Shammas
- From the Division of Plastic, Maxillofacial, and Oral Surgery, Duke University Medical Center
| | - Ji Huh
- Fuqua School of Business, Duke University, Durham, NC
| | - Joel Huber
- Fuqua School of Business, Duke University, Durham, NC
| | - Suhail K Mithani
- From the Division of Plastic, Maxillofacial, and Oral Surgery, Duke University Medical Center
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Advanced Amputation Techniques in Orthopedic Surgery: Hand Transplantation. Tech Orthop 2021. [DOI: 10.1097/bto.0000000000000569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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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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8
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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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Tchiloemba B, Kauke M, Haug V, Abdulrazzak O, Safi AF, Kollar B, Pomahac B. Long-term Outcomes After Facial Allotransplantation: Systematic Review of the Literature. Transplantation 2021; 105:1869-1880. [PMID: 33148976 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000003513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Facial vascularized composite allotransplantation (fVCA) represents a reconstructive approach that enables superior improvements in functional and esthetic restoration compared with conventional craniomaxillofacial reconstruction. Outcome reports of fVCA are usually limited to short-term follow-up or single-center experiences. We merge scientific literature on reported long-term outcome data to better define the risks and benefits of fVCA. METHODS We conducted a systematic review of PubMed/MEDLINE databases in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. English full-text articles providing data on at least 1 unique fVCA patient, with ≥3 years follow-up, were included. RESULTS The search yielded 1812 articles, of which 28 were ultimately included. We retrieved data on 23 fVCA patients with mean follow-up of 5.3 years. More than half of the patients showed improved quality of life, eating, speech, and motor and sensory function following fVCA. On average, the patients had 1 acute cell-mediated rejection and infectious episode per year. The incidence rates of acute rejection and infectious complications were high within first-year posttransplant but declined thereafter. Sixty-five percent of the patients developed at least 1 neoplastic or metabolic complication after transplantation. Chronic vascular rejection was confirmed in 2 patients, leading to allograft loss after 8 and 9 years. Two patient deaths occurred 3.5 and 10.5 years after transplant due to suicide and lung cancer, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Allograft functionality and improvements in quality of life suggest a positive risk-benefit ratio for fVCA. Recurrent acute rejection episodes, chronic rejection, immunosuppression-related complications, and heterogeneity in outcome reporting present ongoing challenges in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianief Tchiloemba
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Martin Kauke
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Valentin Haug
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Department of Hand, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Microsurgery, Burn Trauma Center, BG Trauma Center Ludwigshafen, University of Heidelberg, Ludwigshafen, Germany
| | - Obada Abdulrazzak
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Ali-Farid Safi
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Branislav Kollar
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, University of Freiburg Medical Center, Medical Faculty of the University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Bohdan Pomahac
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
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Win TS, Crisler WJ, Dyring-Andersen B, Lopdrup R, Teague JE, Zhan Q, Barrera V, Ho Sui S, Tasigiorgos S, Murakami N, Chandraker A, Tullius SG, Pomahac B, Riella LV, Clark RA. Immunoregulatory and lipid presentation pathways are upregulated in human face transplant rejection. J Clin Invest 2021; 131:135166. [PMID: 33667197 PMCID: PMC8262560 DOI: 10.1172/jci135166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUNDRejection is the primary barrier to broader implementation of vascularized composite allografts (VCAs), including face and limb transplants. The immunologic pathways activated in face transplant rejection have not been fully characterized.METHODSUsing skin biopsies prospectively collected over 9 years from 7 face transplant patients, we studied rejection by gene expression profiling, histology, immunostaining, and T cell receptor sequencing.RESULTSGrade 1 rejection did not differ significantly from nonrejection, suggesting that it does not represent a pathologic state. In grade 2, there was a balanced upregulation of both proinflammatory T cell activation pathways and antiinflammatory checkpoint and immunomodulatory pathways, with a net result of no tissue injury. In grade 3, IFN-γ-driven inflammation, antigen-presenting cell activation, and infiltration of the skin by proliferative T cells bearing markers of antigen-specific activation and cytotoxicity tipped the balance toward tissue injury. Rejection of VCAs and solid organ transplants had both distinct and common features. VCA rejection was uniquely associated with upregulation of immunoregulatory genes, including SOCS1; induction of lipid antigen-presenting CD1 proteins; and infiltration by T cells predicted to recognize CD1b and CD1c.CONCLUSIONOur findings suggest that the distinct features of VCA rejection reflect the unique immunobiology of skin and that enhancing cutaneous immunoregulatory networks may be a useful strategy in combatting rejection.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov NCT01281267.FUNDINGAssistant Secretary of Defense and Health Affairs, through Reconstructive Transplant Research (W81XWH-17-1-0278, W81XWH-16-1-0647, W81XWH-16-1-0689, W81XWH-18-1-0784, W81XWH-1-810798); American Society of Transplantation's Transplantation and Immunology Research Network Fellowship Research Grant; Plastic Surgery Foundation Fellowship from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons; Novo Nordisk Foundation (NNF15OC0014092); Lundbeck Foundation; Aage Bangs Foundation; A.P. Moller Foundation for the Advancement of Medical Science; NIH UL1 RR025758.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thet Su Win
- Department of Dermatology and
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | - Rachel Lopdrup
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | - Victor Barrera
- Bioinformatics Core, Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Shannan Ho Sui
- Bioinformatics Core, Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sotirios Tasigiorgos
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | - Stefan G. Tullius
- Division of Transplant Surgery, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Bohdan Pomahac
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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11
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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 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.15912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [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, USA
| | - Jianxuan Wu
- Department of Immunology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Dimitrios Moris
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Byron Hayes
- Department of Pathology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Soman N Abraham
- Department of Immunology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA.,Department of Pathology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA.,Department of Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Linda C Cendales
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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12
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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: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [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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14
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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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15
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Matsunaga T, Azuma H, Tullius SG. Immunosuppression in vascularized composite allotransplant: the search for an effective and safe treatment continues. Transpl Int 2020; 33:1291-1293. [PMID: 32348589 DOI: 10.1111/tri.13629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tomohisa Matsunaga
- Division of Transplant Surgery, Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Urology, Osaka Medical College, Osaka, Japan
| | - Haruhito Azuma
- Department of Urology, Osaka Medical College, Osaka, Japan
| | - Stefan G Tullius
- Division of Transplant Surgery, Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
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16
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Madden DJ, Melton MS, Jain S, Cook AD, Browndyke JN, Harshbarger TB, Cendales LC. Neural activation for actual and imagined movement following unilateral hand transplantation: a case study. Neurocase 2019; 25:225-234. [PMID: 31549902 PMCID: PMC6814578 DOI: 10.1080/13554794.2019.1667398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 09/07/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Transplantation of a donor hand has been successful as a surgical treatment following amputation, but little is known regarding the brain mechanisms contributing to the recovery of motor function. We report functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) findings for neural activation related to actual and imagined movement, for a 54-year-old male patient, who had received a donor hand transplant 50 years following amputation. Two assessments, conducted 3 months and 6 months post-operatively, demonstrate engagement of motor-control related brain regions for the transplanted hand, during both actual and imagined movement of the fingers. The intact hand exhibited a more intense and focused pattern of activation for actual movement relative to imagined movement, whereas activation for the transplanted hand was more widely distributed and did not clearly differentiate actual and imagined movement. However, the spatial overlap of actual-movement and imagined-movement voxels, for the transplanted hand, did increase over time to a level comparable to that of the intact hand. At these relatively early post-operative assessments, brain regions outside of the canonical motor-control networks appear to be supporting movement of the transplanted hand.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Madden
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center , Durham , NC , USA
- Brain Imaging and Analysis Center, Duke University Medical Center , Durham , NC , USA
| | - M Stephen Melton
- Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University Medical Center , Durham , NC , USA
| | - Shivangi Jain
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center , Durham , NC , USA
- Brain Imaging and Analysis Center, Duke University Medical Center , Durham , NC , USA
| | - Angela D Cook
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center , Durham , NC , USA
- Brain Imaging and Analysis Center, Duke University Medical Center , Durham , NC , USA
| | - Jeffrey N Browndyke
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center , Durham , NC , USA
- Brain Imaging and Analysis Center, Duke University Medical Center , Durham , NC , USA
| | - Todd B Harshbarger
- Brain Imaging and Analysis Center, Duke University Medical Center , Durham , NC , USA
- Department of Radiology, Duke University Medical Center , Durham , NC , USA
| | - Linda C Cendales
- Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center , Durham , NC , USA
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17
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Kollar B, Uffing A, Borges TJ, Shubin AV, Aoyama BT, Dagot C, Haug V, Kauke M, Safi AF, Talbot SG, Morelon E, Dakpe S, Pomahac B, Riella LV. MMP3 Is a Non-invasive Biomarker of Rejection in Skin-Bearing Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation: A Multicenter Validation Study. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2771. [PMID: 31849957 PMCID: PMC6897344 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: There is unmet need for non-invasive immunomonitoring to improve diagnosis and treatment of acute rejection in vascularized composite allotransplantation (VCA). Circulating matrix metalloproteinase 3 (MMP3) was described as a candidate non-invasive biomarker to predict treatment response to acute rejection in clinical VCA. However, larger validation studies are yet to be reported to allow for more definitive conclusions. Methods: We retrospectively measured MMP3 levels using ELISA in a total of 140 longitudinal serum samples from six internal and three external face transplant recipients, as well as three internal and seven external upper extremity transplant recipients. The control groups comprised serum samples from 36 kidney transplant recipients, 14 healthy controls, and 38 patients with autoimmune skin disease. A linear mixed model was used to study the effect of rejection state (pre-transplant, no-rejection, non-severe rejection (NSR), and severe rejection) on MMP3 levels. Results: In VCA, MMP3 levels increased significantly (p < 0.001) between pre- and post-transplant no-rejection states. A further increase occurred during severe rejection (p < 0.001), while there was no difference in MMP3 levels between non-severe and no-rejection episodes. A threshold of 5-fold increase from pre-transplant levels could discriminate severe from NSR with 76% sensitivity and 81% specificity (AUC = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.65–0.92, p < 0.001). In kidney transplantation, the MMP3 levels were significantly (p < 0.001) elevated during antibody-mediated rejection but not during T-cell mediated rejection (TCMR) (p = 0.547). MMP3 levels in healthy controls and autoimmune skin disease patients were comparable with either pre-transplant or no-rejection/NSR episodes of VCA patients. Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that serum MMP3 protein is a promising marker for stratifying patients according to severity of rejection, complementary to biopsy findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Branislav Kollar
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Audrey Uffing
- Renal Division, Schuster Transplantation Research Center, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Thiago J Borges
- Renal Division, Schuster Transplantation Research Center, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Andrey V Shubin
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Bruno T Aoyama
- Renal Division, Schuster Transplantation Research Center, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Céline Dagot
- Department of Transplantation, Nephrology and Clinical Immunology, Edouard Herriot Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Valentin Haug
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.,Department of Hand, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Burn Trauma Center, BG Trauma Center Ludwigshafen, University of Heidelberg, Ludwigshafen, Germany
| | - Martin Kauke
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Ali-Farid Safi
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Simon G Talbot
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Emmanuel Morelon
- Department of Transplantation, Nephrology and Clinical Immunology, Edouard Herriot Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Stéphanie Dakpe
- Department of Maxillo-Facial Surgery, Amiens University Hospital, Amiens, France
| | - Bohdan Pomahac
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Leonardo V Riella
- Renal Division, Schuster Transplantation Research Center, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
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18
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Novel immunological and clinical insights in vascularized composite allotransplantation. Curr Opin Organ Transplant 2019; 24:42-48. [DOI: 10.1097/mot.0000000000000592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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