GalT-KO Porcine Nerve Xenograft for Reconstruction of Large Nerve Gaps
Abstract
Injuries to peripheral nerves can be a devastating component of a traumatic military injury. We have developed a herd of genetically modified swine (GalT-knockout) whose tissues are able to avoid hyperacute rejection, and are immunologically similar to allografts. Nerve allografts and xenografts both require some immunosuppressive therapy, however this requirement is temporary as autologous cells migrate into the grafts over time, replacing donor cells. Conveniently, treatment with the immunosuppressant FK506 has been shown to independently promote nerve regeneration. This study will compare functional recovery after nerve gap reconstruction using xenograft vs. autograft with FK506 immunosuppression in a nonhuman primate model. Pursuing this project will advance a promising new option for nerve reconstruction in a high quality model of functional outcome, and will result in a technology poised for subsequent clinical investigation.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2018
- Accession Number
- AD1074294
Entities
People
- Curtis L. Jr Cetrulo
Organizations
- Massachusetts General Hospital