News

CD44 and CXCL9 predicting rejection after LTx

21.04.2015 In: Publications written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

Based on a fruitful collaboration with the department of Visceral, Transplantation, Thoracic, and Vascular Surgery at the University of Leipzig our paper on „CD44 and CXCL9 serum protein levels predict the risk of clinically significant allograft rejection after liver transplantation“ has been accepted for publication in Liver Transplantation.

Authors are Nathanael Raschzok, Anja Reutzel-Selke, Rosa Bianca Schmuck, Mehmet Haluk Morgul, Ulrich Gauger, Kukuh Aji Prabowo, Laura-Marie Tannus, Annekatrin Leder, Benjamin Struecker, Sabine Boas-Knoop, Michael Bartels, Sven Jonas, Christian Lojewski, Gero Puhl, Daniel Seehofer, Marcus Bahra, Andreas Pascher, Johann Pratschke, and Igor Maximilian Sauer.

The diagnosis of acute cellular rejection (ACR) after liver transplantation is based on histological analysis of biopsies because non-invasive biomarkers for allograft rejection are not yet established for clinical routines. CD31, CD44, and CXCL9 have previously been described as biomarkers for cross-organ allograft rejection. Here, we assessed the predictive and diagnostic value of these proteins as serum biomarkers for clinically significant ACR in the first six months after liver transplantation in a prospective study. The protein levels were measured in 94 patients immediately prior to transplantation, at postoperative days (POD) 1, 3, 7, and 14, and when biopsies were performed during episodes of biochemical graft dysfunction. Our results suggest that CD44 and CXCL9 may serve as predictive biomarkers to identify liver allograft recipients at risk for clinically significant ACR.

Cover – march issue of Tissue Engineering

02.03.2015 In: Publications written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

One of the figures of our paper „Porcine liver decellularization under oscillating pressure conditions – A technical refinement to improve the homogeneity of the decellularization process“ made it to the cover of the march issue of Tissue Engineering, Part C : Methods.

Congratulations to Dietrich Polenz, who made the corrosion cast of a decellularized pig liver matrix: red, hepatic artery; blue, portal vein; yellow, bile duct and gallbladder.

Particles for microRNA-targeted manipulation

28.01.2015 In: Publications written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

Biomaterials accepted our paper on „Micron-sized iron oxide-containing particles for microRNA-targeted manipulation and MRI-based tracking of transplanted cells“. Authors are Annekatrin Leder, Nathanael Raschzok, Christian Schmidt, Duygu Arabacioglu, Antje Butter, Susanne Kolano, Luisa S. de Sousa Lisboa, Wiebke Werner, Dietrich Polenz, Anja Reutzel-Selke, Johann Pratschke, and Igor M. Sauer.

Particle-based delivery systems for therapeutic manipulation and tracking of transplanted cells by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are commonly based on nanometer-sized superparamagnetic iron oxide particles (SPIOs). Here, we present a proof of concept for multifunctional, silica based micron-sized iron oxide-containing particles (sMPIO) that combine fluorescence imaging, MRI tracking, and on-the-spot targeting of specific microRNAs on a particle surface for therapeutic manipulation by RNA interference. Antisense locked nucle-LNA) were covalently bound to the surface of silica-based, DAPI-integrated, micron-sized iron oxide particles (sMPIO--LNA). In vitro studies using primary human hepatocytes showed rapid particle uptake (4 hours) that was accompanied by significant depletion of the targeted microRNA Let7g (80%), up- regulation of the target proteins Cyclin D1 and c-Myc, and specific proteome changes. sMPIO--LNA- labeled cells were successfully detected by fluorescence imaging and could be visualized by MRI after intrasplenic transplantation in rats. This new theranostic particle provides a promising tool for cell transplantation where cellular imaging and microRNA-based manipulation is needed.

Biomaterials is the leading journal in its field. Impact factors released by ISI in July 2014 showed Biomaterials with an impact factor of 8.312!

Tags: Particles

Decellularization of pancreata – EPITA Award

28.01.2015 In: Meetings |Award written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

Ben Strücker presented our latest results on DECELLULARIZATION OF WHOLE RAT PANCREATA – EVALUATION OF THREE DIFFERENT PERFUSION ROUTES at the 5th EPITA Winter Symposium in Innsbruck from the 25th to the 27th of January 2015. He received the AIDPIT&EPITA Award for the best oral presentation. Congratulations!

Ben Strücker presented three effective protocols for rat pancreas perfusion decellularization, evaluating different perfusion routes. In contrast to liver decellularization the perfusion route seems to have no major impact on decellularization results. The dPECMs could serve for cellular repopulation with islets from a different (xenogene) origin to generate functional, transplantable endocrine pancreata in vitro.

Tags: Decellulariztaion,Pancreas

Rebeka Major: BIH Promotionsstipendium

10.12.2014 In: Grant |General written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

Rebeka Major successfully applied for the BIH-Promotionsstipendium grant. Her work will focus in the role of the INDY („I’m Not Dead Yet“) gene in liver regeneration – a project in cooperation with Prof. A. Birkenfeld, Universitätsklinikum Carl Gustav Carus in Dresden.
In the Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) and the Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin have joined forces. The core idea is to combine translational research with an overarching systems medicine approach to bridge the gap between basic research and clinical application.

Tags: INDY,Liver,Regeneration

ESAO 2015 in Leuven, Belgium

01.11.2014 In: Meetings written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

Tags: ESAO

Presentations at DTG 2014

30.10.2014 In: Meetings written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

Nathanael Raschzok presented his poster „Protein biomarkers for diagnosis and prediction of acute cellular rejection after liver transplantation“, Benjamin Strücker his work entitled „Oszillierende Druckschwankung verbessern signifikant die Ratten- und Schweineleber Dezellularisierung“ and Rosa Schmuck her posters „Risk of postoperative infections after LTX rises with MELD score“ and „Protein biomarkers in bile as a diagnostic tool after liver transplantation“.

Tags: DTG,Decellularization,miRNA

Ben Strücker: Charité Clinical Scientist

10.10.2014 In: Meetings written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

Dr. med Benjamin Strücker successfully applied for the Charité Clinical Scientist 2015 program.
His project is entitled „Humanized Porcine Liver““. Clinical mentor is Prof. Dr. Johann Pratschke, scientific mentors is Priv.-Doz. Dr. med Igor M. Sauer.

The program is supported by Stiftung Charité which was endowed by the entrepreneur Johanna Quandt in order to promote biomedical "knowledge entrepreneurs" that is, change makers in biomedicine at the Charité. The goal of this program is to develop new career paths in clinical specialist medical training. The focus of the training program "Clinical Scientist" is translational research ("bench-to-bedside") which will be realized by a reduction in clinical routine and an improved curriculum with defined goals.

Sham Laparotomy and microRNA Expression in Rats

05.10.2014 In: Publications written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

BMC Research Notes accepted our latest paper on „Independent Effects of Sham Laparotomy and Anesthesia on Hepatic microRNA Expression in Rats“ for publication.

Studies on liver regeneration following partial hepatectomy (PH) have identified several microRNAs (miRNAs) that show a regulated expression pattern. These studies involve major surgery to access the liver, which is known to have intrinsic effects on hepatic gene expression and may also affect miRNA screening results. We performed two-third PH or sham laparotomy (SL) in Wistar rats to investigate the effect of both procedures on miRNA expression in liver tissue and corresponding plasma samples by microarray and qRT-PCR analyses. As control groups, non-treated rats and rats undergoing anesthesia only were used. We found that 49 out of 323 miRNAs (15%) were significantly deregulated after PH in liver tissue 12 to 48 hours postoperatively (>20% change), while 45 miRNAs (14%) were deregulated following SL. Out of these miRNAs, 10 miRNAs were similarly deregulated after PH and SL, while one miRNA showed opposite regulation. In plasma, miRNA upregulation was observed for miR-133a and miR-133b following PH and SL, whereas miR-100 and miR-466c were similarly down-regulated following anesthesia and surgery. We show that miRNAs are indeed regulated by sham laparotomy and anesthesia in rats. These findings illustrate the critical need for finding appropriate control groups in experimental surgery.

Authors are W. Werner, H. Sallmon, A. Leder, S. Lippert, A. Reutzel-Selke, M.H. Morgül, S. Jonas, S. Dame, P. Neuhaus, J. Iacomini, S.G. Tullius, I.M. Sauer and N. Raschzok.

Tags: miRNA,Liver

Textbook of Organ Transplantation Set

05.10.2014 In: Publications written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

Brought to you by the world’s leading transplant clinicians, Textbook of Organ Transplantation provides a complete and comprehensive overview of modern transplantation in all its complexity, from basic science to gold-standard surgical techniques to post-operative care, and from likely outcomes to considerations for transplant program administration, bioethics and health policy.
Beautifully produced in full color throughout, and with over 600 high-quality illustrations, it successfully
- Provides a solid overview of what transplant clinicians/surgeons do, and with topics presented in an order that a clinician will encounter them.
- Presents a holistic look at transplantation, foregrounding the interrelationships between transplant team members and non-surgical clinicians in the subspecialties relevant to pre- and post-operative patient care, such as gastroenterology, nephrology, and cardiology.
- Offers a focused look at pediatric transplantation, and identifies the ways in which it significantly differs from transplantation in adults.
- Includes coverage of essential non-clinical topics such as transplant program management and administration; research design and data collection; transplant policy and bioethical issues.

Editors are Allan D. Kirk, Stuart J. Knechtle, Christian P. Larsen, Joren C. Madsen, Thomas C. Pearson, and Steven A. Webber.
I.M. Sauer, N. Raschzok und P. Neuhaus contributed chapter 47: „Artificial Liver, In Vivo Tissue Engineering, and Organ Printing – Solutions for Organ Scarcity“

The Wiley-Blackwell book (ISBN: 978-1-118-87014-3, 1880 pages) is available here.

Decellularization of porcine livers

01.09.2014 In: Publications written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

Ben Strücker’s paper entitled „Porcine liver decellularization under oscillating pressure conditions – A technical refinement to improve the homogeneity of the decellularization process“ has been accepted for publication in Tissue Engineering, Part C: Methods.
Co-authors are K. Hillebrandt, R. Voitl, A. Butter, R.B. Schmuck, A. Reutzel-Selke, D. Geisel, K. Joehrens, P.A. Pickerodt, N. Raschzok, G. Puhl, P. Neuhaus, J. Pratschke, and I.M. Sauer.

Decellularization and recellularization of parenchymal organs may facilitate the generation of autologous functional liver organoids by repopulation of decellularized porcine liver matrices with induced liver cells. We present an accelerated (7 h overall perfusion time) and effective protocol for human scale liver decellularization by pressure-controlled perfusion with 1% Triton X-100 and 1% SDS via the hepatic artery (120 mmHg) and portal vein (60 mmHg). In addition, we analyzed the effect of oscillating pressure conditions on pig liver decellularization (n=12). The proprietary perfusion device used to generate these pressure conditions mimics intra-abdominal conditions during respiration to optimize microperfusion within livers and thus optimize the homogeneity of the decellularization process. The efficiency of perfusion decellularization was analyzed by macroscopic observation, histological staining (H&E, Sirius red, Alcian blue), immunohistochemical staining (collagen IV, laminin, fibronectin) and biochemical assessment (DNA, collagen, glycosaminoglycans) of decellularized liver matrices. The integrity of the extracellular matrix post-decellularization was visualized by corrosion casting and three-dimensional CT scanning. We found that livers perfused under oscillating pressure conditions (P+) showed a more homogenous course of decellularization and contained less DNA compared to livers perfused without oscillating pressure conditions (P-). Microscopically, livers from the (P-) group showed remnant cell clusters, while no cells were found in livers from the (P+) group. The grade of disruption of the ECM was higher in livers from the (P-) group, although the perfusion rates and pressure did not significantly differ. Immunohistochemical staining revealed that important matrix components were still present after decellularization. Corrosion casting showed an intact vascular (portal vein and hepatic artery) and biliary framework. In summary, the presented protocol for pig liver decellularization is quick (7 h) and effective. The application of oscillating pressure conditions improves the homogeneity of perfusion and thus the outcome of the decellularization process.

Tags: Decellularization,Liver

5th EPITA Winter Symposium

01.09.2014 In: Meetings written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

25th European Student´s Conference

12.08.2014 In: Meetings written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

The ESC is one of the largest student-run biomedical conferences worldwide. It was established in 1989 as one of the first student conferences facilitating exchange between Western and Eastern Europe. Until today, it aims to foster international understanding within the young scientific community, and to promote high-quality science among young researchers in the biomedical field.

This year’s lecture series “Rethinking Medical Research – how do we achieve innovation?” will explore the dichotomy of medical advances by looking at both the opportunities and challenges that are presented to researchers and physicians. With topics ranging from open access policies, pharmaceutical innovations, and revolutionary health policies to advances in global health – we hope that this year’s topic will both challenge and inspire our participants!
The conference will take place from September 17th – 20th at the Virchow Klinikum Campus of the Charité Universitätsmedizin in Berlin, Germany.

More information here!

N. Raschzok Guest Editor - Call for Papers

10.08.2014 In: Publications written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

Pluripotent stem cells have been an important tool for researches in hepatology, starting with mouse embryonic stem cells and transgenesis. Together, with other animal models, they largely contributed to our current knowledge in hepatic cells development and disease modeling. Therefore, with the possibility to manipulate human embryonic stem cells and more recently human induced pluripotent stem cells, there was an existing substratum to study these processes in a human environment, which contributed to the tremendous explosion of the emerging Liver Regenerative Medicine field. The use of such cells in the last few years has been already at the origin of numerous breakthroughs in disease modeling, host-pathogen interactions studies, or liver bioengineering and many are to come.

Investigators are invited to participate in a special issue on „Human Pluripotent Stem Cells in Hepatic Development, Liver Reconstruction and Disease Modeling“ through original research articles at the forefront of this fast pace moving field as well as reviews describing current and forthcoming challenges.

Lead Guest Editor is Karim Si-Tayeb (Institute of the Thorax, Nantes). Guest Editors are Gareth Sullivan (Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo), Robert Schwartz (Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University, New York), Nathanael Raschzok (Charité – Universitaetsmedizin Berlin), and Tamir Rashid (King's College London).

Manuscript Due: Friday, 23 January 2015
First Round of Reviews: Friday, 17 April 2015
Publication Date: Friday, 12 June 2015

Tags: Call for papers

Kristina Kähm - Bachelor of Science

08.08.2014 In: General |Bachelor written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

Kristina Kähm successfully completed her bachelor thesis entitled “Analyse von Glykosaminoglykanen und Fibronektinen in der extrazellulären Matrix zum Nachweis der erfolgten Dezellularisierung von Rattenleber-Explantaten“ and is now a Bachelor of science.
Her project was supervised in cooperation with Prof. Dr. Marcus Frohme, Division Molecular Biotechnology and Functional Genomics, Technical University of Applied Sciences in Wildau, Germany.

Tags: Decellularization

Dr. med. Carolin M. Langer

24.06.2014 In: General |Thesis written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

Today, Carolin Langer successfully defended her thesis entitled Evaluierung eines Silizium-basierten Eisenoxidpartikels als intrazelluläres Magnetresonanzkontrastmittel für die Leberzelltransplantation „magna cum laude“.

Cellular therapies require methods for noninvasive visualization of transplanted cells. Micron-sized iron oxide particles (MPIOs) generate a strong contrast in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and are therefore ideally suited as an intracellular contrast agent to image cells under clinical conditions. However, MPIOs were previously not applicable for clinical use. her thesis focussed on the development and evaluation of silica-based micron-sized iron oxide particles (sMPIOs) with a functionalizable particle surface. Labeling was stable and had no adverse effects on labeled cells. Silica is a biocompatible material that has been approved for clinical use. sMPIOs could therefore be suitable for future clinical applications in cellular MRI, especially in settings that require strong cellular contrast. Moreover, the particle surface provides the opportunity to create multifunctional particles for targeted delivery and diagnostics.

Congratulations !

Decellularization and oscillating pressure conditions

16.06.2014 In: Publications written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

The Journal of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine accepted our latest paper on „Improved rat liver decellularization by arterial perfusion under oscillating pressure conditions“ for publication. Authors are B. Struecker, A. Butter, K. Hillebrandt, D. Polenz , A. Reutzel-Selke, P. Tang, S. Lippert, A. Leder, S. Rohn, D. Geisel, T. Denecke, K. Aliyev, K. Jöhrens, N. Raschzok, P. Neuhaus, J. Pratschke and I.M. Sauer.

One approach of regenerative medicine to generate functional hepatic tissue in vitro is de- and recellularization and several protocols for the decellularization of different species have been published. To the best of our knowledge this is the first report on rat liver decellularization by perfusion via the hepatic artery under oscillating pressure conditions, intending to optimize microperfusion and minimize damage to the ECM. Four decellularization protocols were compared: perfusion via the portal vein (PV) or the hepatic artery (HA), with (+P) or without (-P) oscillating pressure conditions. All rat livers (n=24) were perfused with 1% Triton X-100 and 1% SDS, each for 90 minutes with a perfusion rate of 5ml/min. Perfusion decellularization was observed macroscopically and the decellularized liver matrices (DLMs) were analyzed by histology and biochemical analyses (e.g., levels of DNA, glycosaminoglycans (GAG), and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF). Livers decellularized via the hepatic artery and under oscillating pressure showed a more homogenous decellularization and less remaining DNA, compared to livers of the other experimental groups. The novel decellularization method described is effective, quick (3 hours) and gentle to the ECM and thus represents an improvement of existing methodology.

Tags: Decellularization,Liver

Charité Clinical Scientist Summer Symposium

30.05.2014 In: Meetings written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

Nature Reviews Gastroenterology and Hepatology

02.04.2014 In: Publications written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

Nature Reviews Gastroenterology and Hepatology invited us to provide a review on liver support strategies.

The treatment of end-stage liver disease and acute liver failure remains a clinically relevant issue. Although orthotopic liver transplantation is a well-established procedure, whole-organ transplantation is invasive and increasingly limited by the unavailability of suitable donor organs. Artificial and bioartificial liver support systems have been developed to provide an alternative to whole organ transplantation, but despite three decades of scientific efforts, the results are still not convincing with respect to clinical outcome. In this Review, conceptual limitations of clinically available liver support therapy systems are discussed. Furthermore, alternative concepts, such as hepatocyte transplantation, and cutting-edge developments in the field of liver support strategies, including the repopulation of decellularized organs and the biofabrication of entirely new organs by printing techniques or induced organogenesis are analysed with respect to clinical relevance. Whereas hepatocyte transplantation shows promising clinical results, at least for the temporary treatment of inborn metabolic diseases, so far data regarding implantation of engineered hepatic tissue have only emerged from preclinical experiments. However, the evolving techniques presented here raise hope for bioengineered liver support therapies in the future.

Update: The review „Liver support strategies: cutting-edge technologies“ (authors: Benjamin Struecker, Nathanael Raschzok & Igor M. Sauer) is now available.

yESAO 2014

28.03.2014 In: Meetings written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

Tags: ESAO

Decellularization of rat liver - New time lapse video

14.02.2014 In: General |Projects written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

Biologisierte Medizintechnik

12.02.2014 In: Meetings written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

Die Berlin Partner für Wirtschaft und Technologie, Bereich Medizintechnik, die Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin und die IHK Berlin laden zum
28. Treffpunkt Medizintechnik „Biologisierte Medizintechnik“
am Donnerstag, 25. September 2014, 9 bis 17 Uhr
in der Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum
ein.
Mit dem „Treffpunkt Medizintechnik“ wird eine interdisziplinäre Dialogplattform für Klinik, Wissenschaft und Wirtschaft geboten.
Die Deadline für Vortragsmeldungen ist der 11. April 2014. Unter www.healthcapital.de/TP-Med finden Sie weitere Informationen und haben die Möglichkeit, sich auch online anzumelden.

Neujahrsessen 2014

28.01.2014 In: General written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

41st Annual Congress of the ESAO in Rome

12.01.2014 In: Meetings written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

Prof. Celestino Pio Lombardi, Gemelli Polyclinics, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Rome, and Prof. Gerardo Catapano organize the 41st Annual Congress of the European Society for Artificial Organs (ESAO) in Rome, Italy.

The 41st ESAO Congress will be focused on “Patient happiness: the Holy Grail of organ substitution”, and will be held on September 17-20, 2014 at the Giovanni XXIII congress center located inside the Gemelli Polyclinics in Rome, Italy. The meeting is expected to attract aprox. 600 participants with both clinical and technical expertise from all over the world.
The objective of the Congress is to bring together scientists with different backgrounds working at the development, optimization and translation to the clinics of treatments of organ deficits based on the use of artificial, bioartificial, and cell-based organs or prostheses, and to discuss the importance of technical, psychological and ethical issues to the happiness of patients with serious tissue or organ deficits so as to re-define the design criteria of devices and treatments.

Tags: ESAO,2014

Henriette Riedel successfully defended her thesis

25.10.2013 In: General |Thesis written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

Today, Henriette Riedel successfully defended her thesis entitled Etablierung der kombinierten Transplantation syngener Hepatozyten mit allogenem Lebertransplantat im Rattenmodell zur Untersuchung der Toleranzinduktion „magna cum laude“.

Congratulations !

Transforming Transplantation - Expert Summit 2013

24.10.2013 In: Meetings written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

‘Transforming Transplantation: The Expert Summit 2013’ is taking place in Madrid on the 21-22 November.

The main objective of the summit is to provide a cutting-edge educational opportunity to discuss and learn about new developments in the field from transplantation experts.

Retreat 2013

01.10.2013 In: Retreat |Meetings |Projects |General written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

ESAO 2013 in Glasgow

15.09.2013 In: Meetings |Award written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

The XXXX ESAO Congress took place in Glasgow, September 11th - 14th, 2013. This year we had three oral presentations focussing on our latest results in decellularization and recellularization of the liver. Ben Strücker presented our latest results on „Improved rat liver decellularization by arterial perfusion under oscillating surrounding pressure“. Antje Butter and Karl Hillebrandt gave two oral presentations during the yESAO Rapid Fire Session on „Proprietary rat liver decellularization device utilizing oscillating surrounding pressure to improve micro perfusion within the organ“ and Pig liver decellularisation through portal vein and hepatic artery perfusion under oscillating surrounding pressure“.
Furthermore, Karl Hillebrandt received the „2. Prize for the best Poster“!

Tags: ESAO,Decellularization

ESOT 2013 in Vienna

12.09.2013 In: Meetings written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

Martina Mogl gave an oral presentation on „Characterization of cells isolated from explanted diseased human livers and evolution after cold storage“ at this year’s 16th Congress of the European Society for Organ Transplantation (ESOT) in Vienna.

Tags: ESOT

Functionalizable silica-based MPIO for cellular MRI

02.08.2013 In: Publications written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

Our latest manuscript entitled "Functionalizable silica-based micron-sized iron oxide particles for cellular Magnetic Resonance Imaging" was accepted for publication in the journal "Cell Transplantation".

Cellular therapies require methods for non-invasive visualization of transplanted cells. Micron-sized iron oxide particles (MPIOs) generate strong contrast in
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and are therefore ideally suited as an intracellular contrast agent to image cells under clinical conditions. However,
MPIOs were previously not applicable for clinical use. Here, we present the development and evaluation of silica-based micron-sized iron oxide particles
(sMPIOs) with a functionalizable particle surface.

UPDATE: The paper is now available (Cell Transplant. 2013; 22(11): 1959-1570)

Tags: microparticles

12th Congress of the Cell Transplant Society

12.07.2013 In: Meetings written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

The 12th Congress of the Cell Transplant Society tookplace in Milan, Italy, from July 7 to 11, 2013.
Nathanael Raschzok gave a presentation on "Loco-regional detection and stimulation of transplanted liver cells by particle-based miRNA depletion" and Martina Mogl on "isolation of adult hepatocytes and progenitor cells from explanted diseased human livers“.

Tags: TTS,particles,Cell Tracking

IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society

11.06.2013 In: Meetings written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

The 35th Annual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society (EMBC’13) will take place 3-7 July 2013, at the Osaka International Convention Center, in Osaka, Japan.
The conference will cover diverse topics such as biomedical engineering, healthcare technologies, and medical and clinical applications.
The ESAO will be represented via a minisymposium entitled "Artificial Organs for Metabolic Support. The most Challenging Problems". Jan Wojcicki will give a presentation on "Artificial Organs for Metabolic Support: The Most Challenging Problems of Artificial Pancreas", Bernd Stegmayr on "Artificial Organs for Metabolic Support: The Most Challenging Problems in Severe Kidney Injury When Dialysis Is Necessary" and Igor Sauer on "Artificial Organs for Metabolic Support: The Most Challenging Problems of Liver Support".

Tags: ESAO,Liver Support Therapy

Noninvasive monitoring of liver cell transplantation

12.03.2013 In: Publications written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

Our latest review on „Noninvasive monitoring of liver cell transplantation“ (authors are N. Raschzok, H.M. Morgül, L. Stelter & I.M. Sauer) is available in Imaging in Medicine, 2013; 5: 47-61:
Liver cell transplantation was developed as a therapeutic alternative to solid liver transplantation in the management of liver-based metabolic disorders and may be useful for the treatment of acute or chronic liver failure. While clinical studies have demonstrated temporal amelioration of the symptoms of metabolic liver disorders by transplanted liver cells, the long-term outcome of liver cell transplantation is still insufficient. A major limitation for improving liver cell transplantation is the inability to track the fate of cells once they have been infused. Radionuclide-based imaging, MRI and optical methods have been investigated as methods for noninvasive monitoring of liver cell transplantation. This article summarizes and critically discusses these approaches, with a special focus on MRI-based tracking of transplanted liver cells and provides an outlook on possible clinical applications for the near future.

Einladunfgzur öffentlichen Abschlusspräsentation

01.03.2013 In: Meetings |Projects |Publications written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren,
Dear ladies and gentlemen,

Sie sind herzlich eingeladen, unserer öffentlichen Abschlusspräsentation unseres EU/EFRE-Projekts am 20.03.2013 um 15:00 Uhr beizuwohnen. Zusammen mit unseren Partnern der Firma microparticles GmbH werden wir den aktuellen Stand zur „Entwicklung von Partikel zur Detektion und ultralokoregionären Stimulation transplantierter Leberzellen“ darlegen.
You are cordially invited to attend our public presentation of our EU/EFRE project. Together with our partners of microparticles GmbH we will present our latest results concerning the „Development of particles for detection and ultralocoregional stimulation of transplanted liver cells“.

Wann/When?
20.03.2013 um/at 15:00

Wo/Where?
Experimentelle Chirurgie und Regenerative Medizin
Klinik für Allgemein-, Viszeral- und Transplantationschirurgie
Charité, Campus Virchow-Klinikum
Forschungshaus/BMFZ
Pilzraum, 1.OG

Wir wären dankbar, wenn Sie Ihr Kommen via email (anja.selke@charite.de)bestätigen könnten.
RSVP via email (anja.selke@charite.de).

Dr. Nils Bilecke

22.02.2013 In: General |Thesis written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

Today, Nils Billecke successfully defended his doctoral thesis magna cum laude. The title of his presentation was „Bioreaktorsystem zur videomikroskopischen Langzeituntersuchung von Zellen in Mono- und Kokultur“.

Congratulations!

GASL Poster Prize

16.01.2013 In: Award |Meetings written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

Nathanael Raschzok's poster entitled "Serum protein biomarkers for acute rejection
in liver transplantation" was awarded with the GASL 2013 poster prize during the 29th Annual Meeting of the German Association for the Study of the Liver (GASL) in Hannover, Germany. Co-authors are Kukuh A. Prabowo, Anja Reutzel-Selke, Rosa B. Schmuck, Mehmet H. Morgul, Laura M. Tannus, Stephanie König, Sven Jonas, Peter Neuhaus, and Igor M. Sauer.

Although 20–40% of patients experience at least one episode of acute rejection (AR) after liver transplantation (LTx), diagnosis of AR is still mainly based on tissue analysis from liver biopsies. Biomarker routinely taken from blood samples would be a powerful non-invasive tool for monitoring of the liver graft status. The aim of this study was to investigate the diagnostic and prognostic value of serum protein biomarkers for acute rejection in LTx recipients. Serum samples from n=20 patients with AR and n=15 stable controls were analyzed. CXCL9 and CD31 were up-regulated in AR samples compared to controls at the time point of histologically proven rejection and at earlier time points prior rejection. Areas under the Receiver Operation Characteristics (ROC) curves were 0.6 and 0.7 at the day of rejection and 0.8 at POD1 for CXCL9 and CD31, respectively. IL-6 was increased prior and during rejection, while CD44 showed an opposite trend.
Serum protein biomarkers could be valuable for detection and prediction of AR after LTx. However, a larger number of patients, additional control groups, and prospective clinical trials will be necessary to proof the clinical utility of this diagnostic tool.

Moreover, Rosa Schmuck presented her data on "Bile: miRNA pattern and cell morphology as a diagnostic tool after liver transplantation" (co-authors: Nathanael Raschzok, Anja Reutzel-Selke, Steffen Lippert, Stephanie König, Kukuh A. Prabowo, Mehmet H. Morgul, Laura M. Tannus, Sven Jonas, Peter Neuhaus, and Igor M. Sauer) and Luisa Lisboa her work on "MicroRNA miR-352 in early liver regeneration: what role?" (co-authors: Nathanael Raschzok, Annekatrin Leder, Natalie Schlüter, Marc Jörres, Susanne Kolano, Antje Butter, Steffen Lippert, Wiebke Werner, Peter Neuhaus, and Igor M. Sauer).

Neujahresessen

04.01.2013 In: General written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

50 ways to love your liver

22.12.2012 In: Other written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

David Mücke successfully defended thesis

16.11.2012 In: General written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

Today, David Mücke successfully defended his thesis magna cum laude with respect to his work on the in vitro evaluation of MRI contrast agents for detection of primary human hepatocytes („In vitro Evaluierung von Magnetresonanztomografie-Kontrastmitteln für die Markierung primärer humaner Hepatozyten“).

Congratulations !

XXXX ESAO Congress in Glasgow

11.11.2012 In: Meetings written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

The European Society for Artificial Organs (ESAO) invites you to the XXXX ESAO Congress of the society to be held in Glasgow (Scotland, UK), September 11th-14th 2013.The motto of the ESAO congress will be 'lab to patient - from concept to treatment.

Tags: ESAO

Presentations at EASO 2012 in Rostock, Germany

29.09.2012 In: Meetings written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

This year members of the team gave the following presentations:

“Liver: Current regenerative strategies and future solutions for the liver" (N. Raschzok, oral presentation)
"Neohybrid liver graft - a novel concept of in vivo tissue-engineering" (S. Rohn, oral presentation)
"Micro RNAs in liver regeneration: the mysterious MIR-352" (L. Lisboa, oral presentation)
"Micron-sized iron oxide particles for detection and loco-regional stimulation of transplanted liver cells" (A. Leder, oral presentation)
"Prospective validation of cross organ serum protein biomarkers – Initial results with CXCL9 and CD44 for diagnosis of acute liver rejection" (K.A. Prabowo, poster presentation)

Tags: ESAO

MRI and ectopic liver cell transplantation - new paper

21.09.2012 In: Publications written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

Nathanael Raschzok’s latest paper on „Feasibility of fast dynamic MRI for noninvasive monitoring during ectopic liver cell transplantation to the spleen in a porcine model“ is now available in AJR Am J Roentgenol. 2012 Jun;198(6):1417-23.
Liver cell transplantation is a promising approach for the treatment of metabolic liver disorders. However, a method for noninvasive monitoring during liver cell transplantation is not available clinically. The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility of fast dynamic MRI monitoring during liver cell infusion to the spleen, which is considered an ectopic implantation site for liver cell transplantation. Porcine liver cells were labeled with micron-sized iron oxide particles and infused to the spleens of pigs (n = 5) via the lineal artery. MRI was performed using a 3-T MR scanner. Initially, T1- and T2-weighted pulse sequences were tested. Thereafter, fast dynamic MRI was performed during cell infusion. MR findings were verified by immunohistological examinations.

Images from static MRI (TR/TE, 2500/105.2) showed significantly lower signal intensity and signal-to-noise ratio after cell infusion compared with pretransplant images. T2-weighted fast dynamic MRI enabled visualization of signal decrease of the spleen during cell infusion. When cells were infused systemically, no signal changes in the spleen were observed. This study shows that fast dynamic MRI can enable noninvasive monitoring during liver cell transplantation to the spleen. This approach could be useful for preclinical studies and for quality control of clinical liver cell transplantation.

R.B.V. Schmuck received Charité Robert-Koch-Prize 2012

21.09.2012 In: Award |Thesis written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

Today, Rosa Schmuck received the 2012 Charité Robert-Koch-Prize for her doctoral thesis entitled „Genotypic and phenotypic characterization of side population of gastric cancer cell lines“ (group of Prof. C. Röcken).

The Side Population (SP) of tumor cell lines shares characteristics with tumor stem cells. In this study we phenotypically and genotypically characterized the SP of gastric cancer cell lines. SPs were obtained from MKN45- and AGS-gastric cancer cells using Hoechst 33342 staining and fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS). SP cells were subsequently studied morphologically (cytology, immunocytochemistry), on the transcriptional level (gene array) and in cell culture (recultivation assays). Genes differentially expressed in the SP cells were evaluated by immunohistochemistry in tissue from gastric cancer patients. SP cells were smaller and rounder then Non-SP cells. SP cells self-renewed in re-cultivation experiments and differentiated into SP- and Non-SP cells. Re-cultivated SP- and Non-SP cells showed distinct phenotypes in culture regarding cell shape and colony-formation. SP cells had increased levels of the stem cell markers CD133 and Musashi1. Transcriptional analyses demonstrated that SP cells express genes that encode for stem cell properties like FZD7, HEY1, SMO and ADAM17. Finally she found ADAM17 and FZD7 to be differentially expressed in human gastric cancer, with FZD7- positive intestinal type cancers showing a significant shorter patient survival. In conclusion human gastric cancer cell lines enclose a phenotypically and genotypically distinct cell population with tumor stem cell features. Phenotypical characteristics of this distinct cell population are also present in gastric cancer tissue and seem to correlate with patient survival.

TTS 2012 - Thank you!

01.08.2012 In: Meetings written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

The Science Circuses are located at each end of the Exhibition Area. You will find the Mini-Theatres for the Mini-Oral Sessions here as well as the Poster Lounges and the Web Stations. Science Circus I includes Mini-Theatres 1 – 5; Science Circus II includes Mini-Theatres 6 – 10. In each Science Circus you will find Web Stations where you can access the web as well as the ePosters.
Via wireless headphones and dedicated channels for each mini-theater this is – to our knowledge – the first successful concept for mini-oral presentations!
Thanks to m-events and Interplan for the tremendous support!

Tags: TTS 2012

TTS 2012 | Over 500 presentations online!

29.07.2012 In: Meetings written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

The LOC would like to thank all participants for a tremendous 24th International Congress of The Transplantation Society in Berlin!
2268 abstracts were submitted and more than 4800 delegates from 94 countries attended the congress!
The Postgraduate Weekend offered 14 workshops with 45 speakers. Beside 29 Sunrise Symposia with 103 Speakers, 34 State of the Art Sessions with 138 speakers and five Plenary Sessions (16 speakers) we had 53 sessions with 465 oral presentations and 37 sessions with 287 mini oral presentations !
Furthermore, we would like to thank Astrid Enke, Lena Dochat and Stefanie Rensch (Interplan) and the technical experts at m-Events for their excellent work !
As Science and Medicine is nothing without vivid life we would like to thank Rotfront, Berlin Comedian Harmonists and the Capital Dance Orchestra for their memorable performances!

All the great photos by Jan Pauls.
The organ sculptures were made by Jan Pareike.

Tags: TTS 2012

ESAO 2012 - Final Program Online!

28.07.2012 In: Meetings written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

Prof. Dr. Gustav Steinhoff, congress president of the XXXIX. ESAO Congress, invites you to Rostock on September 26th – 29th, 2012. The venue of the ESAO 2012 congress is the Academy of Music and Theatre, which resides in an old monastery in the city centre.
The motto of the ESAO Congress 2012 will be “from replacement to regeneration – from science to clinic”. The current state of organ assist and organ support allows for a rapidly advancing clinical practice for several hundred thousand patients worldwide.
The scientific program committee did select 59 keynote lectures of renowned international experts, 131 selected oral presentations and 101 poster presentations from worldwide scientific contributors. Nine poster presentations were selected for short oral presentation. We provide a clear program structure by highlighting one special organ system each congress day: heart/cardiovascular (Chair: G. Steinhoff) , liver (Chair: S. Mitzner) and kidney (Chair: W. Ramlow). The program comprises 45 oral and 2 poster sessions with cardiovascular, dialysis, biomaterials and apheresis topics (www.esao2012.org). Above all the congress program integrates aspects of both basic science and clinical development with a clear focus on translation and clinical practice. We intend to host you on an excellent and exciting congress by inviting outstanding experts and by giving young and promising clinicians and scientists the opportunity to present their work. Especially for young scientists there will be one day for yESAO activities (Tuesday, Sept. 25, 2012). Industry symposia, a poster exhibition and an industrial exhibition will complete the congress program.

We are looking forward to seeing you in Rostock 2012.

Tags: ESAO meeting 2012

TTS 2012 | Presentations

27.07.2012 In: Meetings written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

We had 4 oral presentations and one poster presentation at TTS 2012..
Martina Mogl presented "Neohybrid Liver Graft - a Novel Concept of in Vivo Tissue-Engineering"
Rosa Schmuck presented our first results concerning "miRNA Pattern Within the Bile as a Diagnostic Tool after Liver Transplantation"
Nathanael Raschzok gave an oral presentation entitled "Silica-Based Micron-Sized Iron Oxide Particles for Detection and Loco-Regional Stimulation of Transplanted Liver Cells"
Haluk Morgül gave a talk on "MicroRNA as Biomarker for Diagnosis and Prediction of Recurrence of Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma after Liver Transplantation - Preliminary Results from a Multicenter Database"
Furthermore, the group presented a poster concerning "Prospective Validation of Serum Protein Biomarkers for Detection of Acute Liver Rejection – Initial Results with CXCL9 and CD44"

Tags: TTS 2012

TTS Postgraduate Weekend

21.07.2012 In: Award written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

The postgraduate program offers an up-to-date overview on pressing clinical and basic science topics with relevance for all participants of the Berlin 2012 meeting. The program is designed to provide clinicians with an overview of the most recent advances in basic research in a bench-to-bedside approach. Updates on immunosuppression, organ-specific processes, organ supply, immune monitoring and the relevance of animal models in transplantation will help both clinicians and researchers with basic information aligning their efforts and providing the best care of transplant patients in the years ahead.

Tags: TTS 2012

XXXIX ESAO Congress in Rostock, Germany

02.04.2012 In: Meetings written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

On behalf of the European Society for Artificial Organs (ESAO), Prof. Dr. med. Gustav Steinhoff invites you to the XXXIX. ESAO Congress to be held in Rostock (Germany), September 26th – 29th, 2012. Rostock is a prospering and easy-to-reach hanseatic city directly located at the Baltic Sea coast. The venue of the ESAO 2012 congress is the Academy of Music and Theatre, which resides in an old monastery in the city centre. Rostock is home to one of the oldest universities in the world: founded in 1419. The motto of the ESAO Congress 2012 will be “from replacement to regeneration – from science to clinic”. The meeting will provide a clear program structure by highlighting one special organ system each congress day: heart/cardiovascular, liver and kidney. Above all the congress program integrates aspects of both basic science and clinical development with a clear focus on translation and clinical practice. We intend to prepare an excellent and exciting congress by inviting outstanding experts and by giving young and promising clinicians and scientists the opportunity to present their work. Especially for young scientists there will be one day for yESAO activities. Industry symposia, a poster exhibition and an industrial exhibition will complete the congress program.

TTS 2012 Abstract submission now open!

01.10.2011 In: Meetings written by: Prof. Dr. Igor M. Sauer

Please join the mailing list and follow us via Twitter @TTS2012 for latest information concerning the 24th International Congress of The Transplantation Society to be held in Berlin, Germany from July 15th - 19th 2012 !

Tags: TTS 2012

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