Metabolism of the Transplanted Dog Kidney

Abstract

Summary

Oxygen consumption and para-aminohippurate accumulation have been studied in slices of renal cortex from second-set kidney transplants in dogs. The organs were removed for evaluation 24 hours after transplantation, at a time when they show gross hemorrhagic reactions and reduced rates of urine secretion. In spite of advanced rejection, these second-set transplants still accumulated PAH in vitro to the same high level as autotransplant controls. Oxygen uptake also remained within normal limits. Further, the turnover of phosphorus in the acid and lipid soluble fractions remained unaffected by the acute rejection process. A small increase in the specific activity of the nucleic acid phosphorus was observed. We interpret these observations to indicate that cytotoxic reactions are not a major factor in transplant rejection. An interruption of the vascular supply, or a mechanical interference with the nutritional exchange of the tissue, are suggested as more likely causes of transplant destruction.