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Epithelial microchimerism: Consistent finding in human liver transplants
Author(s) -
Gaia Silvia,
Cappia Susanna,
Smedile Antonina,
Bacillo Elisa,
Gaia Ezio,
Gubetta Luciano,
Rizzetto Mario
Publication year - 2006
Publication title -
journal of gastroenterology and hepatology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.214
H-Index - 130
eISSN - 1440-1746
pISSN - 0815-9319
DOI - 10.1111/j.1440-1746.2006.04675.x
Subject(s) - microchimerism , medicine , pathology , immunohistochemistry , liver biopsy , y chromosome , stem cell , in situ hybridization , monoclonal antibody , biopsy , chromosome , hepatic stellate cell , fluorescence in situ hybridization , biology , antibody , immunology , gene , gene expression , fetus , pregnancy , genetics
Background: Eleven liver biopsies from six male patients who received a liver transplant (LT) from female donors were examined in order to determine whether male host‐derived hepatic cells were present in female grafts that exhibited minimal or important inflammatory damage. Methods: Immunohistochemistry for epithelial cell type differentiation (anticytokeratin monoclonal antibody) and fluorescence in situ hybridization for XY chromosomes identification were performed on each slide. Results: Host‐derived hepatic cells were found in all except one transplant, with a frequency ranging from 2.3 to 25‰ of the total hepatocytes in the biopsy specimen. They were usually found as isolated cells scattered throughout the hepatic lobule; in one patient they were grouped into little clusters. Host‐derived hepatic cells persisted throughout the histological follow up (up to 535 days after LT). Polyploidy for XY chromosome was observed. Conclusion: Hepatocytes derived from extra‐hepatic stem cells are frequently found in small numbers in human liver grafts and persist over time.