Conjunctival epithelial cells with donor-derived genome after human haematopoietic stem-cell transplantation

Transplantation. 2009 Mar 27;87(6):915-8. doi: 10.1097/TP.0b013e31819b3eda.

Abstract

To detect conjunctival epithelial cells with donor derived genome following human haematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Conjunctival biopsies from allotransplanted females were stained for the Y-chromosome, cytokeratin, and CD45 followed by a DAPI counterstain and CD68 staining and were then evaluated by laser-scanning confocal microscopy and 3D analysis. In 5 patients donor derived epithelial cells identified as Y+/DAPI+/CK+/CD45-/CD68-/epithelial morphology could be found (57%) with a mean incidence of 5.4% (range 2.42% - 7.94%). Our study demonstrates that besides the already published results in liver, colon, lung, skin and oral mucosa, epithelial cells with donor-derived genome also emerge in the conjunctiva following human HSCT. The biological significance and the underlying mechanism of these findings need further clarification.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Antigens, CD / genetics
  • Biopsy
  • Chromosomes, Human, Y*
  • Conjunctiva / physiology*
  • Epithelial Cells / physiology*
  • Genome*
  • Graft vs Host Disease / genetics
  • Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation*
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Leukemia / surgery
  • Leukocyte Common Antigens / genetics
  • Middle Aged
  • Mucous Membrane / physiology
  • Tissue Donors*

Substances

  • Antigens, CD
  • Immunosuppressive Agents
  • Leukocyte Common Antigens