Pancreatic beta -cells for allogeneic transplantation without immunosuppression

摘要

The invention provides a cells which express a gene or genes, derived from the adenovirus E3 region, which block allograft rejection. One class of genes blocks the intracellular transport and/or intracellular maturation within the cells of proteins called MHC class I products. Without limitation as to theory, it is believed that blocking the appearance of this class of proteins on the transplanted cell's surface, prevents the host's immune system from rejecting the graft. Another class of proteins acts to permit TNF alpha -mediated cell cytolysis. In one embodiment, the invention is directed towards engrafting the cells that secrete insulin, which are called alternatively, pancreatic beta -cells and islet cells, and thereby provide a treatment of diabetes mellitus.