Cellular and molecular composition of human skin in long-term xenografts on SCID mice

Exp Dermatol. 1993 Oct;2(5):209-16. doi: 10.1111/j.1600-0625.1993.tb00035.x.

Abstract

We report on the immunophenotypical characterization of adult human skin transplanted onto severe combined immunodeficient (SCID) mice. Thirty animals were followed for up to 12 months after receiving split-thickness xenografts, of which 28 were tolerated for the whole test period. Antigen mapping revealed an almost complete preservation of human cellular and extracellular tissue components in long-term transplants including skin immune cells (Langerhans-cells, macrophages, lymphocytes) and also parts of the engrafted endothelium. Hence, xenografts on SCID mice offer a versatile experimental tool for the in vivo study of both human skin immune cell function and endothelial cell-mediated interactions in an environment completely devoid of interferences by adoptive host immune response.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Biomarkers
  • Cell Adhesion Molecules / analysis
  • Cytoskeletal Proteins / analysis
  • Female
  • Graft Survival
  • HLA Antigens / analysis
  • Humans
  • Mice
  • Mice, SCID / immunology
  • Mice, SCID / metabolism*
  • Severe Combined Immunodeficiency / immunology*
  • Skin / chemistry
  • Skin / immunology
  • Skin / ultrastructure
  • Skin Transplantation / immunology
  • Skin Transplantation / pathology*
  • Transplantation, Heterologous

Substances

  • Biomarkers
  • Cell Adhesion Molecules
  • Cytoskeletal Proteins
  • HLA Antigens