Allogeneic Cells and Tissues

The advent of regenerative medicine and tissue engineering has led to a new generation of biomedical engineers engaged in research in this exciting arena. The biomedical engineer is faced with many new concepts, many of which entail a detailed understanding of complex biological systems. The aims of this chapter are to convey essential information regarding the nature and uses of allogeneic cells and tissues in regenerative medicine. A brief introduction to cells and tissues and their development is followed by a description of histocompatibility genes and proteins. The basics of how the immune system functions, with particular emphasis on transplantation immunology and the mechanisms of rejection of allogeneic cells and tissues are then explained. Current techniques used for tissue typing and immunosuppression are covered as well as their implications. The chapter then focuses on the potential use of allogeneic cells and tissues in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering applications. Current technologies that make use of allogeneic tissues are then discussed, followed by future developments that aim to overcome rejection of allogeneic cells. Keywords: allogeneic transplant; rejection; tolerance; antigen presentation; immunosuppression; stem cells; xenotransplantation