Microsurgical Techniques for Kidney Transplantation in Mice

Abstract

A microsurgical technique for mouse kidney transplantation (MKT) was developed in the early 1970s by Skoskiewicz and his colleagues [1]. This technique was similar to the rat model reported by Lee in 1961 [2], although it required a higher degree of microsurgical skill and was associated with a higher mortality rate between 30%–50% [3, 4]. Owing to its complexity, including additional ureter-to-bladder anastomosis, the MKT model is currently performed by only a few centers [5, 6]. In 1992 Kalina and Mottram modified the technique for MKT, increasing its success to 70% [7]. However, two surgeons were required for their surgical technique. Since 1990 our laboratory has performed more than 2000 organ transplants in the mouse, including heart, kidney, small bowel, and liver. Using refined microsurgical techniques [8] developed by our laboratory we have achieved success rates as high as 90% after MKT using a single surgeon. Important aspects of renal transplantation in the mouse including surgical technique, renal function, postoperative complications, and rejection patterns in different strain combinations are summarized in this chapter.