Islet extracellular matrix: characterization and digestion

Thesis

Islet transplant is the last treatment for complicated diabetic patients. However the islet recovery from donated pancreas organs is low, typically 50%, largely due to over-digesting as a result of poor process control. This research project aims at improving islet recovery by studying the extracellular matrix around islets, optimising the enzymatic solutions and operational conditions. This includes 3D imaging of pancreatic ECM surrounding an intact islet, real-time imaging of the enzymatic digestion process in a perfused environment, and to design and test a new bioreactor system to achieve digestion and separation at the same time. Using porcine pancreases for ‘proof-of-principle’ experiments, the new bioreactor demonstrates a superiority in islet protection compared with the traditional Ricordi chamber.

Authors: Shen, D

• DOI: 10.5287/ora-xrbevdbkn
• Type of award: DPhil
• Level of award: Doctoral
• Awarding institution: University of Oxford
• Language: English