Influence of ex vivo perfusion on the biomolecular profile of rat lungs

Despite increasing clinical adoption, biologic influences of ex vivo lung perfusion (EVLP) remain insufficiently elucidated. The aim of the current study was to investigate biomolecular changes induced by EVLP in rat lungs. EVLP was maintained for 180 min. Hyaluronan, mediators, and cells were assessed in the perfusate. Gene expression, signaling pathways, and ATP content were investigated in lung tissue. EVLP induced the release of medium-high molecular weight hyaluronan and transcription of hyaluronan synthases (P < 0.001). Increasing concentrations of inflammatory mediators were detected in the perfusate (P < 0.001). Perfused lungs exhibited a distinctive transcriptional signature compared with organs examined before or after surgery/procurement (P = 0.003). Up-regulated genes were involved in inflammation and its regulation, apoptosis/survival, heat shock, and oxidative stress response (q = 0). Down-regulated genes were related to lymphocyte function (q = 0). The NF-κB, signal transducer and activator...