Development of a mouse limb transplantation model.

Abstract

A tremendous amount of research has been dedicated to laying the groundwork that will eventually lead to successful limb transplantation in humans. Limb transplantation in animal models has also been widely used for evaluating composite tissue allografts and various immunosuppressive regimens. Currently, there is no mouse model of limb transplantation. Such a model is attractive because it would allow investigators to apply the well-defined genetic characteristics of the mouse to the challenging field of limb transplantation. In this study, 12 mice underwent orthotopic hind limb transplantations using end-to-end anastomoses of the femoral vessels. The success rate of this surgical procedure was 83%, with 10 of the 12 limbs surviving. Experimental devices, operative procedures, and the major elements of success are discussed.