Skin grafts from genetically modified α-1,3-galactosyltransferase knockout miniature swine: a functional equivalent to allografts

Leonard, D.A. , Mallard, C., Albritton, A., Torabi, R., Mastroianni, M., Sachs, D.H., Kurtz, J.M. and Cetrulo Jr, C.L. (2017) Skin grafts from genetically modified α-1,3-galactosyltransferase knockout miniature swine: a functional equivalent to allografts. Burns, 43(8), pp. 1717-1724. (doi: 10.1016/j.burns.2017.04.026) (PMID:28602591) (PMCID:PMC5722691)

Abstract

Burn is associated with a considerable burden of morbidity worldwide. Early excision of burned tissue and skin grafting of the resultant wound has been established as a mainstay of modern burn therapy. However, in large burns, donor sites for autologous skin may be limited. Numerous alternatives, from cadaver skin to synthetic substitutes have been described, each with varying benefits and limitations. We previously proposed the use of genetically modified (alpha-1,3-galactosyl transferase knockout, GalT-KO) porcine skin as a viable skin alternative. In contrast to wild type porcine skin, which has been used as a biologic dressing following glutaraldehyde fixation, GalT-KO porcine skin is a viable graft, which is not susceptible to loss by hyperacute rejection, and undergoes graft take and healing, prior to eventual rejection, comparable to cadaver allogeneic skin. In the current study we aimed to perform a detailed functional analysis of GalT-KO skin grafts in comparison to allogeneic grafts for temporary closure of full thickness wounds using our baboon dorsum wound model. Grafts were assessed by measurement of fluid loss, wound infection rate, and take, and healed appearance, of secondary autologous grafts following xenograft rejection. Comparison was also made between fresh and cryopreserved grafts. No statistically significant difference was identified between GalT-KO and allogeneic skin grafts in any of the assessed parameters, and graft take and function was not adversely effected by the freeze–thaw process. These data demonstrate that GalT-KO porcine grafts are functionally comparable to allogeneic skin grafts for temporary closure of full thickness wounds, and support their consideration as an alternative to cadaver allogeneic skin in the emergency management of large burns.

• Item Type: Articles
• Additional Information: This study was supported by funding from the U.S. Department of Defense W81XWH-09-1-0419 and from the U.S. National Institutes of Health Grant No. 1C 06 RR 20135-01 for construction of the swine production facility.
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Leonard, Dr David
• Authors: Leonard, D.A., Mallard, C., Albritton, A., Torabi, R., Mastroianni, M., Sachs, D.H., Kurtz, J.M., and Cetrulo Jr, C.L.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Molecular Biosciences
• Journal Name: Burns
• Publisher: Elsevier
• ISSN: 0305-4179
• ISSN (Online): 1879-1409
• Published Online: 08 June 2017