Immune mechanisms associated with the rejection of encapsulated neonatal porcine islet xenografts

Abstract

Our results demonstrate that CD4(+) T cells, B cells and macrophages are the immune cells recruited to and involved in the rejection of encapsulated NPI. Immune molecules secreted by these cells as well as complement can traverse the microcapsule membrane and are responsible for destroying the NPI cells. Treatment regimens which target these molecules may modify the rejection of encapsulated NPI and lead to prolonged islet xenograft survival.