Development of a Non-Human Primate (Rhesus Macaque) Model of Upper Limb Vascularized Composite Allotransplants

Abstract

Background: Traumatic limb amputations represent a substantial challenge facing many civilian and combat wounded. Despite advancements in VCA research to date, a tissue preservation strategy that successfully mitigates ischemia reperfusion injury, preserves graft functionality, and provides long-term graft survival remains imperfect. Objective: To develop a non-human primate (NHP) model of upper limb vascularized composite allotransplant, that allow for evaluation of tissue preservation and reperfusion strategies. Materials and methods: Upper extremities were procured from male rhesus macaques (n=17). Cold storage preservation with University of Wisconsin solution for 12 hours at 4 degrees Celsius was performed, followed by reperfusion of the limbs using extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and a pulsatile perfusion pump with warm autologous whole blood. Results: The results shown here are gathered from n=5 extremities. Significant changes: (1) compared to BSLN lactate and potassium were significantly increased at R60, (2) Base deficit significantly decreased at R0 and R60, (3) Cytokines IL-8 and sCD40-L were significantly increased at R60. Histopathological analysis improved after reperfusion. Conclusions: This protocol establishes a baseline for a standardized NHP limb preservation and is the first step in developing an ex vivo pre-transplantation assessment tool providing statistical analysis of projected graft function and survival.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
May 15, 2018
Accession Number
AD1057224

Entities

People

  • Forest R. Sheppard
  • Jacob J. Glaser
  • Michael R. Davis
  • Nicholas L. Robbins
  • Rodriguez J. Gerardo
  • Ruth M. Paredes

Organizations

  • Naval Medical Research Unit—San Antonio

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Biomedical

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Allografts
  • Amputation
  • Blood
  • Blood Chemistry
  • Casualties
  • Cells
  • Chemistry
  • Cold Storage
  • Medical Personnel
  • Oxygenation
  • Peripheral Nervous System
  • Statistical Analysis
  • Surgery
  • Surgical Amputations
  • Transplants
  • Upper Extremity
  • Vascular Diseases

Fields of Study

  • Medicine

Readers

  • Cardiovascular Physiology
  • Neuroscience
  • Rehabilitation and Prosthetic Care for Military Service Members and Veterans with Limb Loss or Disability.

Technology Areas

  • Biotechnology