Immunoprotection by polyethylene glycol in organ preservation solutions is not due to an immunomasking effect

Abstract

Background: New organ preservation solutions that contain soluble polyethylene glycol (sPEG) molecules have been associated with reduction of acute rejection episodes.

Methods: In the present manuscript we tested in vitro whether sPEG molecules were able to mask donor alloantigens and reduce graft immunogenicity.

Results: Immunomasking effect was only evidenced when PEG molecules were covalently bound to donor cell surface.

Conclusion: We concluded that sPEG in preservation solution are unlikely to display 'immunocamouflage' property.