Use of mycophenolate mofetil in the experimental allo-transplantation of hepatocytes in rats with fulminant hepatic failure

Abstract 

Aim

The aim of the study was to evaluate the beneficial effect of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) as an immunosuppressive agent for experimental transplantation of hepatocytes in rats with fulminant hepatic failure (FHF).

Materials and methods

Six Wistar rats were used as donors and 40 Lewis rats at recipients, including four groups of 10 animals each. Group A received no treatment; Group B, cyclosporine (20 mg/kg days 0–5 and 10 mg/kg days 6–15); Group C, MMF (12 mg/kg per os every day); and Group D, MMF (23 mg/kg per os every day). Hepatocytes were transplanted intrasplenically. Animals were followed for 15 days.

Results

The survival rates for Group A were maximum 72 h, whereas Groups B, C, and D showed 50%, 70%, and 80%, respectively. Biochemical evaluation and histology showed satisfactory function and engraftment, respectively.

Conclusion

The use of MMF in this experimental model yielded safe, satisfactory immunosuppression especially at the dose of 23 mg/kg.