Integrin Alpha 9 Blockade Suppresses Lymphatic Valve Formation and Promotes Transplant Survival.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

The lymphatic pathway mediates transplant rejection. We recently reported that lymphatic vessels develop luminal valves in the cornea during lymphangiogenesis, and these valves express integrin alpha 9 (Itga-9) and play a critical role in directing lymph flow. In this study, we used an allogeneic corneal transplantation model to investigate whether Itga-9 blockade could suppress valvulogenesis after transplantation, and how this effect would influence the outcomes of the transplants.

Methods

Orthotopic corneal transplantation was performed between fully mismatched C57BL/6 (donor) and BALB/c (recipient) mice. The recipients were randomized to receive subconjunctival injections of either Itga-9 blocking antibody or isotype control twice a week for 8 weeks. Corneal graf

SUBMITTER: Kang GJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5096415 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature