2023 Vol. 14, No. 3

Editorial
Current status and reflections on stem cell transplantation in the treatment of testicular aging
Mo Jiahui, Li Xinyu, Chen Zhihong, Zhang Min, Deng Chunhua
2023, 14(3): 319-326. doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1674-7445.2023.03.001
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Testicular aging is mainly characterized by a gradual decline in the capability of testosterone synthesis and spermatogenesis, which not only affects male fertility, but also correlates with aging-related chronic diseases intimately. Therefore, delaying testicular aging plays a significant role in improving the health and quality of life of middle-aged and elderly men. Stem cells are a cell group with potent self-renewal capability and multi-directional differentiation potential. In recent years, the research of stem cells in basic and clinical application has been carried out in-depth, which has accelerated the development of cell therapy. Currently, stem cell transplantation has been employed to treat multiple diseases, which has captivated widespread attention in the field of aging and regenerative medicine. Stem cell transplantation has demonstrated promising prospects in the treatment of testicular aging. In this article, research profile and progress of stem cell transplantation in the treatment of testicular aging were reviewed, and bottleneck issues encountered in clinical translation and strategies for optimizing clinical efficacy were discussed, aiming to provide novel ideas for the research and development and clinical translation of stem cell therapy for testicular aging.
Expert Forum
Prevention and treatment of chronic graft-versus-host disease by mesenchymal stem cells: advances and challenges
Bao Yingying, Chen Xiaoyong
2023, 14(3): 327-335. doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1674-7445.2023.03.002
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Chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) is the main complication after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, which is also the major cause of non-relapse -related death. Due to its complex pathophysiological process, the response rate of conventional glucocorticoids combined with immunosuppressants is less than 50%. Second-line therapy should be given for patients with glucocorticoid-resistant cGVHD. Nevertheless, no consensus has been reached on current second-line therapy and the therapeutic effect is relatively poor. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) is one of the most common adult stem cells. Due to multi-dimensional and multi-target immune regulating function, MSC has been widely applied in the prevention and treatment of cGVHD. In addition, accumulated studies have confirmed the safety and efficacy of MSC in the treatment of cGVHD, which is expected to become a novel strategy for the prevention and management of cGVHD. In this article, research progress, mechanism and existing problems of prevention and treatment of cGVHD by MSC were reviewed, aiming to provide novel ideas for optimizing therapeutic regimens of MSC and enhancing the prevention and treatment effect of cGVHD in subsequent research.
Academic Summary
Research highlights on kidney transplantation in 2022 from China
Wei Jianchao, He Kaiming, Sun Qiquan
2023, 14(3): 336-342. doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1674-7445.2023.03.003
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As a mature organ transplantation surgery, kidney transplantation has become the best means for treating end-stage renal diseases and improves the quality of survival of patients. However, there are still many challenges after kidney transplantation, such as rejection, infection, ischemia-reperfusion injury and fibrosis of transplant kidney, which seriously affect the efficacy of kidney transplantation. With the development of translational medicine, regenerative medicine, biomaterials and other emerging fields, Chinese research teams continue to work hard and publish many bright researches to solve various clinical problems related to kidney transplantation. This article reviews the basic and clinical frontiers of kidney transplantation in 2022 as well as the new techniques and advances in the field of transplantation, focuses on the achievements made by the Chinese team in the field of transplantation in 2022, and provides ideas for solving the major clinical problems of kidney transplantation from the perspective of localization to promote the further development of kidney transplantation in China.
Guideline and Consensus
Expert consensus on perioperative nursing standards for pediatric kidney transplantation
Surgery Nursing Committee of Shanghai Nursing Association
2023, 14(3): 343-351. doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1674-7445.2023.03.004
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Pediatric kidney transplant recipients differ from adult counterparts in primary disease, physiology, psychology, organ function and immune status and their perioperative treatment and nursing management are different from those of adult kidney transplantation. To standardize holistic perioperative nursing regimens for pediatric kidney transplantation, Surgery Nursing Committee of Shanghai Nursing Association organized national medical and nursing experts in the fields of transplantation to jointly draft "expert consensus on perioperative nursing standards for pediatric kidney transplantation " (abbreviated as "consensus"). After three rounds of online expert inquiry, all revised opinions were jointly discussed combined with literature evidence, and the expert consensus was finally reached. The highlights of perioperative treatment and nursing care for pediatric kidney transplantation were summarized and stated, including preoperative evaluation, preoperative and postoperative nursing care, which were of scientific and practical value.
Transplantation Forefront
Therapeutic strategy for instant blood-mediated inflammatory reaction after islet transplantation
Yang Yuwei, Zhang Ting, Li Wanli, Chen Jibing, Gao Hongjun
2023, 14(3): 352-357. doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1674-7445.2023.03.005
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As an effective procedure for type 1 diabetes mellitus and end-stage type 2 diabetes mellitus, islet transplantation could enable those patients to obtain proper control of blood glucose levels. Instant blood-mediated inflammatory reaction (IBMIR) is a nonspecific inflammation during early stage after islet transplantation. After IBMIR occurs, coagulation cascade, complement system activation and inflammatory cell aggregation may be immediately provoked, leading to loss of a large quantity of transplant islets, which severely affects clinical efficacy of islet transplantation. How to alleviate the islet damage caused by IBMIR is a hot topic in islet transplantation. Heparin and etanercept, an inhibitor of tumor necrosis factor-α, are recommended as drugs for treating IBMIR following islet transplantation. Recent studies have demonstrated that multiple approaches and drugs may be adopted to mitigate the damage caused by IBMIR to the islets. In this article, the findings in clinical and preclinical researches were reviewed, aiming to provide reference for the management of IBMIR after islet transplantation.
Research progress on the role of macrophages in post-transplantation chronic rejection
Ren Difei, Liao Tao, Miao Yun
2023, 14(3): 358-363. doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1674-7445.2023.03.006
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Organ transplantation is the optimal treatment for end-stage organ failure. Nevertheless, rejection remains an important factor affecting the allograft survival. At present, acute rejection may be effectively treated, whereas no effective interventions are available for post-transplantation chronic rejection. Long-term chronic rejection may lead to graft failure and severely affect long-term survival rate of allografts. In recent years, the role of macrophages in post-transplantation chronic rejection has gradually captivated increasing attention. In this article, main pathological changes of chronic rejection, the diversity and functional differences of macrophages involved in chronic rejection, and the role and mechanism of macrophages in chronic rejection were reviewed, and research progresses on macrophage-related treatment for chronic rejection were summarized, aiming to provide reference for the study of macrophages in post-transplantation chronic rejection.
Prevention and treatment of high-risk acute myeloid leukemia recurrence after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Wang Jiaqi, Sheng Xinge, Ma Zhihao, Lu Quanyi
2023, 14(3): 364-370. doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1674-7445.2023.03.007
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Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a group of highly-heterogeneous clonal diseases. Chemotherapy and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation are considered as effective treatment for AML. For high-risk AML patients, allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is an effective therapeutic option. However, some AML patients may still face the problem of disease recurrence after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. A majority of recurrent patients cannot be effectively treated by chemotherapy or secondary transplantation, which is the main cause of death after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Therefore, it is of significance to strengthen follow-up of AML patients after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and implement appropriate measures to prevent postoperative recurrence. In this article, the monitoring, drug prevention and cell therapy of recurrence after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in high-risk AML patients were reviewed, aiming to provide reference for improving clinical prognosis of high-risk AML patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.
Original Article
Protective role and mechanism of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosome in renal ischemia-reperfusion injury
Guo Wenwen, Yuan Yuan, Wang Hao, Luo Hao, Wei Huafeng, Li Lingyu, Lyu Xinghua
2023, 14(3): 371-378. doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1674-7445.2023.03.008
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  Objective  To investigate the protective effect of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosome (hucMSC-Exo) on renal ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI), and to clarify the critical role and regulating mechanism of transient receptor potential canonical (TRPC) 6/poly adenosine-diphosphate-ribose polymerase (PARP) 1 signaling pathway during this process.  Methods  The hucMSC-Exo was extracted by ultracentrifugation, and identified by transmission electron microscope (TEM), nanoparticle tracing analysis and Western blot. SD rats were randomly divided into the sham operation group (group S), sham operation+TRPC6 inhibitor SKF96365 group (group SS), renal IRI group (group IRI), exosome treatment group (group EXO) and exosome +TRPC6 inhibitor SKF96365 group (group ES), with 6 rats in each group. Serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels were detected. Pathological changes of renal tissues were observed by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining and Paller score was calculated. The expression levels of key molecules of necroptosis in rat renal tissues, including receptor-interacting protein kinase (RIPK)1, RIPK3 and mixed-lineage kinase domain-like protein (MLKL), TRPC6 and PARP1, were detected by Western blot.  Results  Typical saucer-like structure was observed under TEM. Nanoparticle tracing analysis showed that the average diameter of the extracted substance was 125.9 nm. Western blot revealed that the surface markers of CD9, CD63 and CD81 were positively expressed, confirmed that the extracted substance was exosome. Compared with group S, the serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels were up-regulated, the pathological damage of renal tissues was worsened, Paller score was elevated, the relative expression levels of TRPC6 and PARP1 proteins were down-regulated, and the relative expression levels of RIPK1, RIPK3 and MLKL proteins were up-regulated in group IRI (all P < 0.05). Compared with group IRI, the serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels were down-regulated, the pathological damage of renal tissues was mitigated, Paller score was decreased, the relative expression levels of TRPC6 and PARP1 proteins were up-regulated, and the relative expression levels of RIPK1, RIPK3 and MLKL proteins were down-regulated in group EXO (all P < 0.05). Compared with group EXO, the serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels were up-regulated, the pathological damage of renal tissues was aggravated, Paller score was increased, the relative expression levels of TRPC6 and PARP1 proteins were down-regulated, and the relative expression levels of RIPK1, RIPK3 and MLKL proteins were up-regulated in group ES (all P < 0.05).  Conclusions  hucMSC-Exo may alleviate the necroptosis induced by renal IRI in rat models, which is related to the activation of TRPC6/PARP1 signaling pathway.
Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles enhance the regenerative capability of fibrotic liver
Lei Yunguo, Yao Jia, Zheng Jun, Lu Tongyu, Zhang Jiebin, Xiao Jiaqi, Liu Yasong, Chen Haitian, Zhao Xuegang, Yang Xingye
2023, 14(3): 379-388. doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1674-7445.2023.03.009
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  Objective  To investigate the role of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicle (hUC-MSC-EV) in the regeneration of fibrotic liver.  Methods  C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into the 70% normal liver resection group (Oil+PHx group), 70% liver fibrosis resection group (CCl4+PHx group) and 70% liver fibrosis resection+mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicle (MSC-EV) treatment group (CCl4+PHx+MSC-EV group), with 8 mice in each group. LX-2 cell lines were assigned into the phosphate buffer solution (PBS) group, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β group and TGF-β+MSC-EV group. The serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in mice after partial liver resection were detected in each group. The expression levels of liver fibrosis and proliferation-related parameters were analyzed in each group. The messenger RNA (mRNA) expression levels of epidermal growth factor (EGF), fibroblast growth factor (FGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) in LX-2 cells were detected in each group, and their effects on HGF expression in mouse liver were observed.  Results  Compared with the Oil+PHx group, the serum levels of AST, ALT and LDH were up-regulated, and the degree of fibrosis was more severe, the positive area of Sirius red and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) staining was larger, and the expression level of α-SMA protein was up-regulated in the CCl4+PHx group. Compared with the CCl4+PHx group, the serum levels of AST, ALT and LDH were decreased, the degree of fibrosis was slighter, the positive area of Sirius red and α-SMA staining was decreased, and the expression level of α-SMA protein was down-regulated in the CCl4+PHx+MSC-EV group, and the differences were statistically significant (all P < 0.05). Compared with the Oil+PHx group, the protein expression levels of Ki67 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) were lower in the CCl4+PHx group. Compared with the CCl4+PHx group, the protein expression levels of Ki67 and PCNA were increased in the CCl4+PHx+MSC-EV group, and the differences were statistically significant (all P < 0.05). Compared with the PBS group, the expression level of CollagenⅠ mRNA in LX-2 cells was increased, the expression level of α-SMA protein was up-regulated and the expression level of HGF protein was decreased in the TGF-β group. Compared with the TGF-β group, the expression level of CollagenⅠ mRNA in LX-2 cells was decreased, the expression levels of HGF mRNA and protein were increased, and the expression level of α-SMA protein was decreased in the TGF-β+MSC-EV group, the differences were statistically significant (all P < 0.05). The expression level of HGF protein in the CCl4+PHx group was lower than that in the Oil+PHx group, whereas the difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). The expression level of HGF protein in the CCl4+PHx+MSC-EV group was higher than that in the CCl4+PHx group, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05).  Conclusions  The regenerative capacity of fibrotic liver is weaker than that of normal liver. hUC-MSC-EV may alleviate liver fibrosis and improve liver regeneration by promoting HGF secretion from actived hepatic stellate cells and effectively enhancing the regenerative capacity of fibrotic liver.
Clinicopathological features and prognostic analysis of 44 patients with polyomavirus nephropathy after kidney transplantation
Wang Zipei, Guo Hui, Zhang Bo, Tang Yukun, Jiang Jipin, Zhou Ping, Du Dunfeng
2023, 14(3): 389-396. doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1674-7445.2023.03.010
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  Objective  To analyze the clinicopathological features and prognosis of polyomavirus nephropathy (PyVN) after kidney transplantation.  Methods  Clinical data of 44 patients who were diagnosed with PyVN after kidney transplantation were retrospectively analyzed. The causes of puncture and the time of pathological diagnosis were analyzed. Histological grading was carried out according to Banff 2018 classification. Clinical data and pathological characteristics of patients at all grades were statistically compared. BK viral DNA loads in the blood and urine were measured and renal allograft function were assessed. Clinical prognosis of all patients was compared among different groups and the risk factors affecting clinical prognosis were also analyzed.  Results  The time interval between pathological diagnosis of PyVN and kidney transplantation was 16(8, 29) months, and the increase of serum creatinine level was the main cause for puncture. Among 44 patients, 19 cases were classified as grade ⅠPyVN, 21 cases of grade Ⅱ PyVN and 4 cases of grade Ⅲ PyVN, respectively. Under optical microscope, there was no significant difference in the positive rate of virus inclusion bodies among different groups (P=0.148). Inflammatory cell infiltration, interstitial fibrosis and polyomavirus load in grade Ⅱ PyVN patients were all more or higher than those in grade Ⅰ counterparts. Inflammatory cell infiltration and polyomavirus load in grade Ⅲ patients were more or higher than those in grade Ⅰ counterparts. Polyomavirus load in grade Ⅲ patients was more or higher than that in grade Ⅱ counterparts. The differences were statistically significant (all P < 0.05/3). Upon diagnosis, BK viral DNA load was detected in the blood and urine of 39 patients. Among them, 38 patients were positive for BK virus in the urine and 30 patients were positive for BK virus in the blood. The serum creatinine level upon diagnosis was higher compared with that at postoperative 1 month. The serum creatinine level at the final follow-up was significantly higher than that upon diagnosis. The differences were statistically significant (P < 0.001, P=0.049). There was no significant difference in the serum creatinine level among patients with different grades of PyVN at postoperative 1 month (P=0.554). The serum creatinine level of patients with grade Ⅱ PyVN upon diagnosis was significantly higher than that of those with grade Ⅰ PyVN (P=0.007). The 1-, 3- and 5-year cumulative survival rates of renal allografts were 95%, 69% and 62%, respectively. The survival rates of renal allografts significantly differed among patients with different grades of PyVN. The higher the grade, the lower the survival rate (P=0.014). Univariate and multivariate Cox's regression analyses prompted that intrarenal polyomavirus load and serum creatinine level upon diagnosis were the independent risk factors for renal allograft dysfunction (all P < 0.05).  Conclusions  PyVN mainly occurs within 2 years after kidney transplantation. Clinical manifestations mainly consist of increased serum creatinine level, BK viremia and BK viruria. Postoperative routine monitoring of BK virus contributes to early diagnosis and protection of renal allografts. Banff 2018 classification may effectively predict the prognosis of renal allografts.
Mechanism of regulatory effect of recombinant human HMGB1 on endothelial cell angiogenesis
Deng Jintao, Xu Wenbin, Ren Jianhua, Zhang Wenhui, Wang Zhe, Liang Tangzhao
2023, 14(3): 397-403. doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1674-7445.2023.03.011
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  Objective  To unravel the possible mechanism of the role of recombinant human high mobility group box 1 (rhHMGB1) protein in regulating the angiogenesis of endothelial cells.  Methods  Endothelial cells were divided into the control group, bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) supernatant group and rhHMGB1 group. The proliferation and survival of endothelial cells were detected by cell counting kit(CCK)-8 assay. The relative expression levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), Yes-associated protein (YAP), CD31 and hypoxia inducible factor (HIF)-1α proteins were determined by Western blot. The relative expression levels of VEGF, YAP, CD31 and HIF-1α messenger RNA (mRNA) were detected by real-time fluorescent quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). The migration ability of endothelial cells was assessed by Transwell chamber test. The localization of YAP was detected by immunofluorescence staining.  Results  Compared with the control group, the migration rate of endothelial cells was increased in the rhHMGB1 group (P < 0.05), and the cell migration rate was enhanced over time. Compared with the control group, the relative expression levels of VEGF and p-YAP proteins were up-regulated in the MSC supernatant group, and the differences were statistically significant (both P < 0.05). Compared with the control group, the relative expression levels of VEGF and HIF-1α proteins, VEGF and CD31 mRNA and YAP and p-YAP proteins were up-regulated, and YAP/p-YAP ratio was increased in the rhHMGB1 group, and the differences were statistically significant (all P < 0.05). Compared with the MSC supernatant group, the relative expression levels of CD31 mRNA and YAP protein were up-regulated, and the YAP/p-YAP ratio was increased in the rhHMGB1 group, and the differences were statistically significant (all P < 0.05).  Conclusions  Exogenous high-concentration rhHMGB1 may promote the migration ability of endothelial cells and up-regulate the expression levels of angiogenesis-related proteins by regulating the recruitment of YAP to the nucleus.
Application of SpyGlass endoscopic direct visualization system in complicated biliary complications after orthotopic liver transplantation
Wang Xuan, Li Fu, Tang Rui, Huang Jinxin, Liu Jiakang, Gong Biao, Zhang Xiwen
2023, 14(3): 404-410. doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1674-7445.2023.03.012
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  Objective  To evaluate the application efficacy of SpyGlass endoscopic direct visualization system in management of complex biliary complications after orthotopic liver transplantation.  Methods  Clinical data of 369 adult patients with biliary complications after orthotopic liver transplantation who received endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) for the first time were retrospectively analyzed. Preoperative conditions, intraoperative manifestations, treatment outcomes and complications of patients treated with SpyGlass system were analyzed.  Results  Fifty-six patients were treated with SpyGlass system. The main preoperative symptoms included abdominal discomfort in 38 cases, fever in 8 cases, jaundice in 6 cases and skin itching in 4 cases. Ultrasound examination in 18 patients indicated common bile duct stenosis and significant intrahepatic bile duct dilatation. Preoperative magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) of 56 patients revealed that 36 cases were diagnosed with common bile duct stenosis complicated with stones, 16 cases of common bile duct stenosis alone and 4 cases of suspected tumors. All patients had definite indications for SpyGlass system treatment. Among 56 patients treated with SpyGlass system, 34 cases were diagnosed with anastomotic stricture complicated with stones, 12 cases of anastomotic stricture alone, 1 case of biliary stone and 4 cases of tumors. Among 48 cases who were successfully treated, the levels of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, γ-glutamyltransferase, alkaline phosphatase and total bilirubin at postoperative 48 h were all significantly lower than preoperative levels (all P<0.05). No severe complications occurred in 56 patients treated with SpyGlass system.  Conclusions  Use of SpyGlass system may significantly increase success rate and guarantee surgical safety in the treatment of complex biliary complications after liver transplantation, which is worthy of promotion and application.
Protective effect and mechanism of mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicle on radiation-induced liver injury
Chen Chi, Xiao Jiaqi, Sui Xin, Zhang Yingcai
2023, 14(3): 411-419. doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1674-7445.2023.03.013
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  Objective  To evaluate the protective effect and the underlying mechanism of mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicle (MSC-EV) on radiation-induced liver injury and liver cell line injury in mouse models.  Methods  C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into the blank group, model group and MSC-EV treatment group (treatment group), with 9 mice in each group. AML12 cells were randomly divided into the control group, irradiation group and MSC-EV intervention group (intervention group). Animal and cell models with radiation-induced injury were established by one-time 15 Gy and 6 Gy X-ray irradiation, respectively. At 48 h after irradiation, liver tissues and serum samples of mice were collected and prepared for subsequent experiments. At 15 h post-irradiation, cell experiment was carried out. Serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and content of malondialdehyde (MDA) in liver tissues and cells were measured. The relative expression levels of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β and CXC chemokine ligand (CXCL)10 messenger RNA (mRNA) were detected by real-time fluorescent quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Liver tissues were prepared for hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining to calculate liver pathological injury score. The apoptosis of liver tissues and cells was assessed by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) and propidiumiodide (PI) staining, respectively. The expression levels of glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) and ferroptosis suppressor protein 1 (FSP1) proteins were detected by Western blot. The production level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was detected by dihydroethidine (DHE) staining. The fluorescence intensity of mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) was determined.  Results  Compared with the blank group, serum levels of AST and ALT were up-regulated, and the relative expression levels of IL-1β, TGF-β and CXCL10 mRNA in the mouse liver tissues were up-regulated, and MDA content was increased, liver injury score was elevated, cell apoptosis rate was increased, intracellular ROS level was elevated, and the relative expression levels of GPX4 and FSP1 proteins in the mouse liver tissues were down-regulated in the model group, and the differences were statistically significant (all P<0.05). Compared with the model group, serum levels of AST and ALT were decreased, and the relative expression levels of IL-1β, TGF-β and CXCL10 mRNA in the liver tissues of mice were down-regulated, MDA content was declined, liver injury score was declined, cell apoptosis rate was decreased, intracellular ROS level was decreased, and the relative expression levels of GPX4 and FSP1 proteins in the liver tissues of mice were up-regulated in the treatment group, and the differences were statistically significant (all P<0.05). Compared with the control group, cell apoptosis rate was increased, intracellular ROS level was elevated, the fluorescence intensity of mPTP was weakened, the relative expression levels of IL-1β, TGF-β and IL-6 mRNA were up-regulated, MDA content was increased, and the relative expression levels of GPX4 and FSP1 proteins were down-regulated in the irradiation group, and the differences were statistically significant (all P<0.05). Compared with the irradiation group, cell apoptosis rate was declined, intracellular ROS level was decreased, the fluorescence intensity of mPTP was strengthened, the relative expression levels of IL-1β, TGF-β and IL-6 mRNA were down-regulated, MDA content was decreased and the relative expression levels of GPX4 and FSP1 proteins were up-regulated in the intervention group, and the differences were statistically significant (all P<0.05).  Conclusions  MSC-EV may effectively alleviate radiation-induced liver injury by reducing ferroptosis of liver cells, enhancing antioxidant level and decreasing the production of lipid peroxide, thereby effectively alleviating radiation-induced liver injury.
Effect of donor age on short-term survival of patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis after lung transplantation
Wang Jing, Hu Chunlan, Yu Huizhi, Li Xiaoshan, Xu Bo, Huang Dongxiao, Hu Chunxiao, Chen Jingyu
2023, 14(3): 420-426. doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1674-7445.2023.03.014
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  Objective  To evaluate the effect of donor age on short-term survival of patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) after lung transplantation.  Methods  Clinical data of 235 IPF donors and recipients of lung transplantation were retrospectively analyzed. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression models were employed to analyze the correlation between donor age and short-term mortality rate of IPF patients after lung transplantation. Kaplan-Meier was used to draw the survival curve.  Results  Univariate Cox regression analysis showed that donor age was correlated with the 1-year fatality of IPF patients after lung transplantation. The 1-year fatality of recipients after lung transplantation was increased by 0.020 times if donor age was increased by 1 year (P=0.009). Oxygenation index of the donors, preoperative oxygenation index, preoperative lung allocation score, preoperative N-terminal pro brain natriuretic peptide, pattern of transplantation, pattern of intraoperative extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and intraoperative blood transfusion volume of the recipients were correlated with 1-year fatality after lung transplantation (all P < 0.1). Multivariate Cox regression analysis demonstrated that there was no correlation between donor age and 30-, 90-, 180-d and 1-year fatality of IPF patients after lung transplantation (all P > 0.05). Sensitivity analysis showed that there was no significant difference in 30-, 90-, 180-d and 1-year fatality after lung transplantation among donors aged < 18, 18-33, 34-49 and ≥50 years (all P > 0.05).  Conclusions  Donor age exerts no effect upon short-term survival of IPF patients after lung transplantation. Considering the mechanical ventilation time, oxygenation index, infection and other factors of donors, the age range of lung transplant donors may be expanded.
Successful treatment of acute leukemia by secondary transplantation after the first haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation failure
Huang Kezhi, Li Yiqing, Xie Shaofan, Xiao Jie, Yang Wenjuan, Xie Shuangfeng, Ma Liping, Nie Danian
2023, 14(3): 427-434. doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1674-7445.2023.03.015
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  Objective  To evaluate the feasibility of secondary transplantation for patients with acute leukemia after failure of the first haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.  Methods  Two acute leukemia patients underwent the first haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation from two donors with thalassemia, and the number of collected CD34+ cells was 2.57×106/kg and 1.99×106/kg per donor, respectively. The first haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation failed. Secondary transplantation was performed from two non-thalassemia donors, and the number of collected CD34+ cells was 4.28×106/kg and 5.75×106/kg per donor, respectively. A reduced-intensity conditioning regimen consisting of fludarabine (Flu), busulfan (Bu) and antithymocyte globulin (ATG) was adopted for the secondary transplantation.  Results  For two recipients, the time of secondary transplantation of neutrophil and platelet was +12 d and +10 d, +10 d and +10 d, respectively. Up to the final follow-up (+1 062 d and +265 d after secondary transplantation), the primary diseases of both two recipients have been completely relieved without evident post-transplantation complications.  Conclusions  Secondary transplantation with reduced-intensity conditioning regimen may successfully treat acute leukemia after failure of the first haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.
Policy evaluation of human organ transplantation based on policy modeling consistency index model
Wu Qinde, Zhao Zijun, Xie Xianyu, Zhang Wei, Xu Benhua
2023, 14(3): 435-441. doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1674-7445.2023.03.016
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  Objective  To evaluate the policy of human organ transplantation in China, aiming to provide theoretical basis for further optimizing the policy of human organ transplantation.  Methods  Based on text mining and statistical analysis, seven normative policies of human organ transplantation formulated by national government from 2000 to 2022 were quantitatively evaluated by constructing policy modeling consistency (PMC) with 10 first-level variables and 35 second-level variables.  Results  Among the seven policies, six were graded as excellent policies and one as perfect policy, with an average PMC index of 8.476. Except X8 policy audience, the scores of other second-level variables of P5 were higher than or equal to the mean. The scores of all second-level variables of P1 were lower than or equal to the mean. P1 and P5 significantly differed in X3 policy timeliness, X4 policy norms and X6 policy tools. P5 was more specific and relatively comprehensive in these aspects, and its score was significantly higher than that of P1.  Conclusions  Human organ transplantation policies in China are generally excellent, scientific and rational. Health administrative departments at all levels should pay attention to the grasp of policy timeliness, the combination of policy tools, and fully mobilize the initiative and enthusiasm of all policy audience to participate in organ transplantation management when formulating organ transplantation policies.
Review Article
Treatment of severe aplastic anemia and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Li Yanjuan, Zhang Liansheng, Li Lijuan
2023, 14(3): 442-448. doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1674-7445.2023.03.017
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Abstract:
Severe aplastic anemia (SAA) is a severe bone marrow failure syndrome caused by multiple causes, which is clinically manifested with severe anemia, infection and bleeding. The complex pathogenesis of SAA has not been fully understood. SAA is characterized with acute onset, severe disease condition and rapid progression. At present, with the in-depth study of SAA and the improvement of diagnosis and treatment, the therapeutic strategy for SAA has been evolved from classical immunosuppressive therapy based on antithymocyte globulin and cyclosporine to the application of thrombopoietin receptor agonist and combined treatment based on allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, which may promote the reconstruction of hematopoietic function of SAA patients to varying degree and significantly improve survival and clinical prognosis, becoming the research hotspot of SAA treatment. In this article, new advances in the treatment of SAA at home and abroad were reviewed.
Research progress on cold ischemia injury of steatotic donor livers
Yang Hanwen, Wang Qiang, Cheng Ke, Cai Mingxin, Zhao Yujun
2023, 14(3): 449-454. doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1674-7445.2023.03.018
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Abstract:
Liver transplantation is a vital treatment for end-stage liver disease. However, the shortage of donor livers has limited the development of liver transplantation. How to expand the source of donor livers has become a challenge in the academic community. In recent years, the proportion of donors with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has been increased. Rational use of steatotic donor livers is a feasible approach to expand the donor pool. Cold ischemia injury during donor liver preservation before liver transplantation increases the risk of postoperative organ dysfunction. Therefore, it is of significance to unravel the mechanism and intervention measures of cold ischemia injury of steatotic donor livers. Cold ischemia injury of steatotic donor livers is characterized as the damage of mitochondria, lysosomes and endoplasmic reticulum at the organelle level, and up-regulated expression of adenosine monphosphate activated protein kinase (AMPK), aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2) and heme oxygenase (HO)-1 at the protein level. In this article, the research progresses on cold ischemia injury of steatotic donor livers and relevant intervention measures were reviewed.
Research status on the role of heat shock protein in organ transplantation
Cheng Xuechao, Song Yongxiang, Meng Hui
2023, 14(3): 455-460. doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1674-7445.2023.03.019
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Abstract:
Organ transplantation is an effective treatment for multiple end-stage diseases. In recent years, rapid progress has been made in the field of organ transplantation, which has been widely accepted and applied in clinical practice. However, low utilization rate of donors and high postoperative complications remain to be urgently resolved. Heat shock protein (HSP) is a category of protein family induced by heat shock or other stressors. Upon stress stimulation, HSP plays an anti-inflammation, anti-oxidation and anti-apoptosis role in mitigating the stress-induced damage. HSP is also involved in the processes of promoting immune response and anti-rejection, etc. Organ transplantation, as a stress stimulus, could induce HSP to function in the process of organ transplantation through many patterns, thereby alleviating the allograft damage, improving the utilization rate of donors and prolonging the postoperative survival of recipients. In this article, research status on the role of HSP in lung transplantation, heart transplantation, liver transplantation and kidney transplantation were reviewed, aiming to provide reference for donor protection of organ transplantation and treatment of postoperative complications.
Application of ureteral stent in kidney transplantation
Zhong Cuiyu, Wang Yuchen, Liu Rumin, Miao Yun
2023, 14(3): 461-465. doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1674-7445.2023.03.020
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Abstract:
Ureteral stricture, urine leakage and other urinary complications are likely to occur after kidney transplantation, which severely affect the function of renal allograft and even lead to renal allograft loss. Ureteral stent plays a critical role in kidney transplantation, which could promote the urine flow from kidney to bladder after kidney transplantation, lower the pressure within the ureter and reduce the risk of early urinary complications. However, it may also cause urinary tract infection, stent-related complications and BK virus infection, etc. Therefore, clinicians should flexibly grasp the indications for ureteral stent removal. In this article, the application, potential adverse reactions and the timing of removal of ureteral stent in the field of kidney transplantation were reviewed, aiming to provide reference for clinical decision-making related to ureteral stent after kidney transplantation.
Research progress on perioperative rehabilitation of kidney transplantation
Ma Xiaojie, Yao Bonuan, You Yong, Jiang Hongtao
2023, 14(3): 466-472. doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1674-7445.2023.03.021
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Abstract:
Kidney transplantation is the most effective treatment for end-stage renal disease in clinical practice. Compared with patients receiving dialysis, kidney transplant recipients may achieve higher survival rate and quality of life, and better clinical outcomes. However, kidney transplant recipients constantly develop physiological and psychological disorders, such as frailty, decreased cardiopulmonary function and cognitive dysfunction, etc. In recent years, with the application of the concept of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS), rehabilitation therapy plays a pivotal role in optimizing preoperative baseline function, mitigating perioperative physiological and psychological stress and reducing the incidence of postoperative complications. In this article, the application of ERAS in kidney transplantation was reviewed, and research progress on pre-rehabilitation before kidney transplantation and acute-stage rehabilitation after kidney transplantation was summarized, aiming to provide reference for perioperative rehabilitation of kidney transplantation, enhance the quality of life of kidney transplant recipients and accelerate the development of kidney transplantation techniques.