Survival of patients with poor prognosis or relapsed haematopoietic malignancies can be markedly improved by allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). HSCT reconstitutes the immune and haematopoietic systems after myeloablative conditioning and inhibits the recurrence of the malignancy by a graft-versus-leukaemia (GVL) response mediated by donor T cells. However, significant post-transplant complications such as graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) continue to plague the event-free survival of this curative procedure. GVHD is facilitated by donor T cells that recognise histocompatibility antigens on host antigen presenting cells (APC), such as dendritic cells (DC). Current treatment options for GVHD are focused on these T cells. However, these treatments result in an increased incidence of infection, graft rejection and relapse. A novel means of immunosuppression in GVHD is the use of multi-potent, mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC). MSC are non-immunogenic cells that actively suppress T cell function in vitro, and can resolve steroid-refractory GVHD in the clinic. Despite their use in the clinic, there is a paucity of pre-clinical data. Our aim was to investigate the in vivo efficacy of MSC to control GVHD while maintaining the beneficial GVL effect, and to begin to understand the mechanism by which MSC exert their immunosuppressive effects. We isolated and characterised MSC from murine bone/bone marrow and demonstrated that they suppressed T cell proliferation in vitro, even at low ratios of 1 MSC per 100 T cells. This was true of both donor-derived MSC, and MSC derived from unrelated donors (third party). Importantly, we observed that MSC significantly reduced T cell production of the pro-inflammatory cytokines TNFα and IFNγ in culture supernatants and that IFNγ plays a key role in the ability of MSC to suppress T cell proliferation. In vivo, we examined the effects of donor-derived MSC on GVHD severity and onset in two myeloablative murine models of HSCT. A major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-mismatched donor-recipient pair combination was used as a proof–of-principle model [UBI-GFP/BL6 (H-2b)àBALB/c (H-2d)], and an MHC-matched, minor histocompatibility antigen (miHA) mismatched donor-recipient pair combination was used to mimic MHC-matched sibling transplantation [UBI-GFP/BL6 (H-2b)àBALB.B (H-2b)]. We examined a number of variables related to MSC infusion including timing, dose and route of injection. We found that early post transplant infusion of MSC by the intraperitoneal injection was most effective at delaying death from GVHD, compared to pre-transplant infusion or intravenous injection. Furthermore, we found that the dose of MSC was critical, as infusion of too few MSC was ineffective and infusion of too many MSC exacerbated the development of GVHD. Taken together, these results suggest that timing, dose and route of injection are all important factors to be considered to ensure successful therapeutic outcome. To investigate the in vivo mechanism of action, we conducted timed sacrifice experiments in the MHC-mismatched model to determine if MSC altered cytokine secretion and cellular effectors, such as DC, known to play a key role in GVHD. Despite the fact that MSC given post-HSCT enter an environment full of activated DC and IFNγ levels, by day 3 and 6 post infusion, these activated DC and IFNγ levels are decreased compared to controls or mice infused with MSC pre-transplant (p<0.05). This confirmed our in vitro data that IFNγ played an important role in MSC-mediated immunosuppression. In addition, when we removed a major source of IFNγ production in vivo by administering the T cell depleting antibody KT3 to mice with or without MSC, we found that although T cell depletion prolonged survival, MSC were unable to further enhance this effect. This was also true when MSC were used in combination with the conventional immunosuppressant cyclosporine. Finally, we examined whether the infusion of MSC would compromise the GVL effect. We found that whilst MSC could delay the onset of GVHD, in our model they did not alter the anti-tumour effects of the donor T cells. Overall, we have shown that MSC can delay but not prevent death from GVHD when administered at an appropriate time and dose and that IFNγ is required for MSC-mediated immunosuppression in our model. These data suggest that patients undergoing HSCT should be monitored for IFNγ, and administered MSC when high levels are reached. Whilst MSC may be a promising therapy for patients with severe GVHD, we highlight that further investigation is warranted before MSC are accepted for widespread use in the clinic. The risks and benefits for transplant recipients should be carefully considered before utilising MSC to treat or prevent GVHD.

Survival of patients with poor prognosis or relapsed haematopoietic malignancies can be markedly improved by allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). HSCT reconstitutes the immune and haematopoietic systems after myeloablative conditioning and inhibits the recurrence of the malignancy by a graft-versus-leukaemia (GVL) response mediated by donor T cells. However, significant post-transplant complications such as graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) continue to plague the event-free survival of this curative procedure. GVHD is facilitated by donor T cells that recognise histocompatibility antigens on host antigen presenting cells (APC), such as dendritic cells (DC). Current treatment options for GVHD are focused on these T cells. However, these treatments result in an increased incidence of infection, graft rejection and relapse. A novel means of immunosuppression in GVHD is the use of multi-potent, mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC). MSC are non-immunogenic cells that actively suppress T cell function in vitro, and can resolve steroid-refractory GVHD in the clinic. Despite their use in the clinic, there is a paucity of pre-clinical data. Our aim was to investigate the in vivo efficacy of MSC to control GVHD while maintaining the beneficial GVL effect, and to begin to understand the mechanism by which MSC exert their immunosuppressive effects. We isolated and characterised MSC from murine bone/bone marrow and demonstrated that they suppressed T cell proliferation in vitro, even at low ratios of 1 MSC per 100 T cells. This was true of both donor-derived MSC, and MSC derived from unrelated donors (third party). Importantly, we observed that MSC significantly reduced T cell production of the pro-inflammatory cytokines TNFα and IFNγ in culture supernatants and that IFNγ plays a key role in the ability of MSC to suppress T cell proliferation. In vivo, we examined the effects of donor-derived MSC on GVHD severity and onset in two myeloablative murine models of HSCT. A major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-mismatched donor-recipient pair combination was used as a proof–of-principle model [UBI-GFP/BL6 (H-2b)àBALB/c (H-2d)], and an MHC-matched, minor histocompatibility antigen (miHA) mismatched donor-recipient pair combination was used to mimic MHC-matched sibling transplantation [UBI-GFP/BL6 (H-2b)àBALB.B (H-2b)]. We examined a number of variables related to MSC infusion including timing, dose and route of injection. We found that early post transplant infusion of MSC by the intraperitoneal injection was most effective at delaying death from GVHD, compared to pre-transplant infusion or intravenous injection. Furthermore, we found that the dose of MSC was critical, as infusion of too few MSC was ineffective and infusion of too many MSC exacerbated the development of GVHD. Taken together, these results suggest that timing, dose and route of injection are all important factors to be considered to ensure successful therapeutic outcome. To investigate the in vivo mechanism of action, we conducted timed sacrifice experiments in the MHC-mismatched model to determine if MSC altered cytokine secretion and cellular effectors, such as DC, known to play a key role in GVHD. Despite the fact that MSC given post-HSCT enter an environment full of activated DC and IFNγ levels, by day 3 and 6 post infusion, these activated DC and IFNγ levels are decreased compared to controls or mice infused with MSC pre-transplant (p<0.05). This confirmed our in vitro data that IFNγ played an important role in MSC-mediated immunosuppression. In addition, when we removed a major source of IFNγ production in vivo by administering the T cell depleting antibody KT3 to mice with or without MSC, we found that although T cell depletion prolonged survival, MSC were unable to further enhance this effect. This was also true when MSC were used in combination with the conventional immunosuppressant cyclosporine. Finally, we examined whether the infusion of MSC would compromise the GVL effect. We found that whilst MSC could delay the onset of GVHD, in our model they did not alter the anti-tumour effects of the donor T cells. Overall, we have shown that MSC can delay but not prevent death from GVHD when administered at an appropriate time and dose and that IFNγ is required for MSC-mediated immunosuppression in our model. These data suggest that patients undergoing HSCT should be monitored for IFNγ, and administered MSC when high levels are reached. Whilst MSC may be a promising therapy for patients with severe GVHD, we highlight that further investigation is warranted before MSC are accepted for widespread use in the clinic. The risks and benefits for transplant recipients should be carefully considered before utilising MSC to treat or prevent GVHD.

Diss. (sammanfattning) Stockholm : Karol. inst., 2005. / Härtill 4 uppsatser.

Introdução: Células-troco mesenquimais (CTM) vêm mostrando seus benefícios na doença do enxerto-versus-hospedeiro (DECH), observada no transplante de células tronco hematopoéticas (TCTH), existem três questões em aberto: (1) Expansão de CTM em meio de cultura suplementado com soro fetal bovino (SFB), pelo o risco de xenorreação; (2) Otimização de condições de cultura para a obtenção, em tempo hábil, de um numero que permita de 4 a 6 infusões de 2x106cells/kg do receptor; (3) Obter células do doador de medula óssea, evitando assim a utilização de um terceiro doador. Objetivos: Este estudo foi desenhado para comparar o lisado de plaquetas (LP) e o SFB na expansão de CTM, a densidade de plaqueamento das células e os dias entre cada passagem, e para investigar se as células nucleadas totais obtidas da bolsa e filtro do TCTH, podem ser utilizadas para expansão de CTM para utilização clínica. Métodos: Células residuais foram removidas do filtro e da bolsa utilizados para o TCTH, plaqueadas e depois da primeira passagem foram cultivadas em diferentes concentrações com SFB ou LP e observado o número de dias que levaram para chegar a 80% de confluência. Em seguida, as culturas com as mesmas densidades de plaqueamento foram suplementadas com LP ou SFB e depois de sete dias contou-se o número de células para analisar o quanto elas cresceram nesse período. Resultados: A proliferação de CTM, na presença de LP e SFB foi em média 11,88 e 2,5 vezes, respectivamente, num período de 7 dias. A concentração mais elevada de células usando LP demorou menos tempo para atingir a confluência, em comparação com os três inferiores. Este estudo sugere que o LP é a melhor escolha como suplemento para expandir CTM, e permite a proliferação de um número suficiente de CTM de doadores para uso clínico. / Introduction: Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) have shown their benefits in graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), with three unsettled matters:(1) MSCs expansion in medium with Fetal Calf Serum (FCS) and its risk of xenoreaction; (2) The number of cells indicated for therapy is 2x106cells/Kg with the need to optimize expansion, number and time wise; and (3) the utilization of third party donors. Aims: This study was designed to compare the platelet lysate (LP) and FCS on the expansion of MSC, the optimal cell plating density and days between each pass, and to investigate if donor total nucleated cells (TNC) obtained from the washouts of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) explants can be expanded to be used at clinical grade. Methods: TNC were removed, plated and after the first passage were cultivated in different concentrations with FCS or PL and the number of days reach 80% of confluence was observed. Next, cultures with the same plating density were fed either with PL or FCS and after seven days counted to analyze how much they have grown in that period. Results: The proliferation of mesenchymal stromal cells in the presence of PL and SFB was averaged 11.88 and 2.5 times, respectively, in a period of 7 days. The highest concentration of plating cells using PL, took less time to reach confluence as compared with the three lower ones. This study suggests that the PL is the best choice as a supplement to expand MSC, and allows the proliferation of a sufficient number of donors MSC at P2 for clinical use.

Introdução: O Transplante de Célula Tronco Hematopoiética (TCTH) é um tratamento potencialmente curativo para muitas desordens hematológicas. A disparidade HLA entre doador e receptor é um fator crítico para os resultados do TCTH. No entanto novas evidencias tem demonstrado que outros fatores como a fonte de célula tronco, o tipo de condicionamento e fatores relacionados aos doadores, entre eles o sexo, a idade e o status sorológico para Citomegalovirus (CMV) podem influenciar os desfechos do procedimento. Objetivo: Avaliar as características dos doadores de medula óssea e seu impacto nos desfechos do TCTH em um centro do Sul do Brasil. Métodos: Foram avaliadas retrospectivamente as características dos doadores como sexo, idade, presença de exposição previa ao CMV, incompatibilidade ABO e suas relações com a ocorrência de doença do enxerto contra hospedeiro (DECH) aguda e crônica, a mortalidade relacionada ao transplante (do inglês tumor related mortality – TRM) sobrevida livre de doença (SLD) e sobrevida Global (SG) em todos os pacientes submetidos a TCTH alogênico em um único centro durante o período de 1994 a 2012. Resultados: 347 pacientes foram incluídos na análise. O TCTH aparentado foi significativamente mais freqüente que o não aparentado (81.2 x 18.7), a mediana de idade foi de 34 (1-61) para os receptores e 33 (1-65) para os doadores. Na analise multivariada a presença de DECH agudo (33% vs 47%) p=0,04 e ter doadores mais idosos (>40 anos) foram associados a uma redução de SG em 5 anos (41% vs 52%) p=0,038. Ter um doador acima de 40 anos aumenta significativamente a incidência de DECH aguda (52% vs 65,8%) p=0,03 e crônica (60% vs 43%) p=0,015. O sexo do doador, presença de CMV e incompatibilidade ABO não tiveram influencia nos desfechos. Conclusão: Em um centro único avaliado receber um transplante de CTH de doadores acima de 40 anos aumenta a incidência de DECH aguda e crônica e influencia negativamente na SG. / Background: Hematopoietic Stem cell Transplantation (HSCT) is a curative treatment for many patients with hematological disorders. Donor – recipient genetic disparity, especially involving the HLA systems is a critical factor for HSCT outcome There are increasing evidences, however that other issues as source of stem cell, conditioning regimen, donor gender, age and CMV infection can affect HSCT outcomes. Objective: To study the influence of donor’s characteristics on the HSCT outcomes in a south Brazilian population subjected to allogeneic SCT in a single center. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated donor characteristics such as gender, age, CMV serologic status and ABO compatibility and its relation to the occurrence of acute and chronic graft versus host disease (GVHD), disease free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) in all patients submitted to related and unrelated allogeneic HSCT, performed between 1994 and 2012. Results: Overall 347 consecutives HSCT were included in this analysis. Related HSCT was significantly more frequent than unrelated (81.2% x 18.7%); donor and recipient median age were 34 (1- 61) and 33 (1-65), respectively. In the multivariate analyses, presence acute GVHD (33%vs 47%)p=0.04 ,with relative risk and donors older than 40 years old was associated with lower probability of OS in 5 years (41% vs 52%) p=0,038 and higher rate of acute (65.8%vs 52%) p=0.03 and chronic GVHD (43% vs 60%) p=0,015. Donor’s sex, CMV status, ABO incompatibility have not influenced 5-years survival. Conclusions: In a single center population of patients submitted to related and unrelated HSCT in southern Brazil donor older then 40 years of age is a factor negatively influencing HSCT outcome.

Objetivos. Avaliar o papel do transplante de células hematopoiéticas (TCH) e da interleucina 6 (IL – 6) sobre vários parâmetros de estresse oxidativo em pacientes com Adrenoleucodistrofia ligada ao cromossomo X (X-ALD). Métodos. A concentração de malondialdeído (MDA), o conteúdo de carbolinas e sulfidrilas e a concentração de ácido hexacosanóico (C26:0) foram quantificados no plasma de pacientes X-ALD antes e após serem submetidos ao TCH. E, a concentração de MDA, a formação de carbonilas e a concentração de IL-6 foram quantificados em plasma e o conteúdo de glutationa reduzida (GSH) foi quantificado em eritrócitos de pacientes X-ALD com fenótipos cerebral infantil (cALD) ou assintomáticos no momento diagnóstico. Resultados. Observamos um aumento significativo na concentração de MDA em plasma de pacientes X-ALD antes e após o TCH em comparação ao grupo controle e uma redução significativa nesses valores após o transplante em comparação aos anteriores ao procedimento. Verificamos uma redução significativa no conteúdo de sulfidrilas no plasma de pacientes X-ALD antes do TCH em comparação ao grupo controle e um aumento significativo desses níveis após o TCH. Não observamos diferenças significativas no conteúdo de carbonilas no plasma de X-ALD antes e após o TCH, em comparação aos controles, apesar de observarmos uma redução significativa nesta determinação nos pacientes após o transplante em relação a antes do TCH. Os pacientes X-ALD apresentam níveis plasmáticos de C26:0 significativamente aumentados antes do TCH em comparação aos controles e, após o TCH, as concentrações de C26:0 foram reduzidas. Observamos uma correlação negativa significativa entre a medida do conteúdo de sulfidrilas e os níveis plasmáticos de C26:0 de indivíduos X-ALD antes do TCH. Também evidenciamos elevados níveis de MDA e da formação de carbonilas no plasma de pacientes cALD e assintomáticos em comparação ao grupo controle. Ainda, observamos redução significativa do conteúdo de GSH nos dois grupos testados comparados aos controles. A quantificação de IL-6 foi significativamente maior nos pacientes cALD, o que não foi observado nos pacientes assintomáticos, apesar destes mostrarem uma tendência de aumento da concentração de IL-6. Conclusões. Os resultados obtidos a partir do plasma de pacientes X-ALD antes e após o TCH demonstram que esta terapia, quando bem indicada e bem sucedida, tem alta efetividade em reduzir a concentração plasmática de C26:0 e é eficaz em reduzir a peroxidação lipídica e o dano oxidativo às proteínas nos pacientes X-ALD. Ainda, é possível relacionar o acúmulo de C26:0 e o dano oxidativo na patogênese da X-ALD. Nossos dados permitem sugerir que a lipoperoxidação e o dano oxidativo às proteínas possam de alguma forma estar envolvidos na fisiopatologia da X-ALD. Além disso, podemos presumir que, nos pacientes X-ALD assintomáticos estudados, o dano oxidativo e os aspectos inflamatórios desempenham papéis importantes na evolução e nas futuras manifestações do fenótipo neuronal. Também podemos supor que a administração de antioxidantes deve ser considerada como uma terapia adjuvante potencial para os pacientes assintomáticos e sintomáticos afetados pela X-ALD, inclusive para aqueles submetidos ao TCH. / Objective. We aimed to evaluate the role of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and interleukin 6 (IL – 6) on various parameters of oxidative stress in X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD) patients. Methods. Malondialdehyde (MDA), sulfhydryl, carbonyl and hexacosanoic acid (C26:0) levels were measured in plasma from X-ALD patients before and after HSCT. And, MDA, carbonyl and IL-6 levels were measured in plasma and reduced glutathione (GSH) content was measured in erythrocytes from X-ALD patients with different phenotype (asymptomatic and childhood cerebral (CCER patients) at diagnosis moment. Results. We observed increased levels of MDA in plasma from X-ALD before and after HSCT compared to control group, but there was a significant reduction in MDA values after transplantation compared to levels found before the procedure. We verified a significant decrease in sulfhydryl content in plasma of X-ALD patients before HSCT compared with the control group and we also verified a significant increase in the levels of sulfhydryl content after HSCT. No significant differences were observed in carbonyl content in plasma of X-ALD before and after HSCT, compared to controls. However, we observed a significant reduction of plasma carbonyl content from X-ALD patients after HSCT compared to before HSCT. X-ALD patients presented a significant increase of C26:0 plasma level before HSCT when compared to controls and an important reduction of C26:0 plasma concentration in X-ALD patients after HSCT when compared to before HSCT C26:0 levels. We observed an inverse significant correlation between sulfhydryl content and plasma C26:0 levels of X-ALD individuals before HSCT. We also evidenced high levels of MDA and carbonyl formation in plasma from CCER and asymptomatic patients compared to controls. Still, we observed a significant decrease of GSH content in both groups tested compared to controls. The quantification of IL-6 is significantly higher in CCER patients, which is not observed in asymptomatic patients, despite these patients show a tendency of increased concentration of IL-6. Conclusions. The results obtained from plasma of X-ALD patients before and after HSCT demonstrate that this therapy, when well indicated and successful, has high effectiveness in reducing C26:0 plasma and is effective in reducing lipid peroxidation and oxidative damage to proteins in X-ALD patients. Still, it is possible to relate the accumulation of C26:0 and oxidative damage in the pathogenesis of X-ALD. Our data also suggest that lipid peroxidation and protein damage may somehow be involved in the pathophysiology of X-ALD. Moreover, we can assume that in our asymptomatic X-ALD patients, oxidative damage and inflammatory issues seem to play an important role in the evolution and future manifestations of neuronal phenotype. We can also assume that the administration of antioxidants should be considered as a potential adjuvant therapy for asymptomatic and symptomatic patients affected by X-ALD, including those that are submitted to HSCT.

Background e objetivo. A reconstituição celular hematopoiética com o transplante de células tronco hematopoiéticas (TCTH) alogênicas é um método de tratamento estabelecido para uma variedade de doenças hematológicas, oncológicas e imunológicas. Entretanto, TCTH está associado a considerável morbimortalidade devido a fatores como recidiva da doença de base, grau de compatibilidade HLA, tipo de regime de condicionamento e infecções durante o período de neutropenia. Este estudo investigou a associação entre o aloantígenoneutrofílico humano (HNA) e o dia de pega, a ocorrência de DECH aguda e TRM em pacientes que foram submetidos a transplante de células tronco hematopoiéticas alogênico. Tipo de estudo e local. Estudo de coorte prospectivo realizado no Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre. Métodos. Avaliamos 27 pacientes transplantados entre maio de 2013 e abril de 2014 e seus respectivos doadores. A tipagem HNA foi realizada, nas amostras dos doadores, por PCR-SSP e os anticorpos anti-HNA foram detectados nos pacientes utilizando o kit LABSCREEN MULTI (LSMUTR – One Lambda). Resultados. A idade variou entre 1 a 63 anos, com uma média de 20,4 ± 17,5 anos. Dezenove pacientes eram pediátricos (<21 anos) com média de idade de 10,05 ± 6,4 anos e entre os pacientes adultos a média foi 42,2 ± 12,6 anos. Houve um discreto predomínio do sexo masculino 16 (59,3%). As leucemias agudas foram frequentes em 19 (70,4%) dos pacientes, outras doenças oncohematológicas malignas (Linfoma Hodgkin e Linfoma não Hodgkin) estiveram em 3 (11,1%) e as não malignas (síndrome mielodisplásica, osteopetrose, hemoglobinúria paroxicística noturna, aplasia e doença granulomatosa) estiveram em 6 (22,2%) dos casos. A maioria dos pacientes 19 (70,4%), apresentavam a doença há menos de 12 meses na época do transplante e 24 (88,9%) deles foram totalmente compatível com seus doadores quanto ao sistema HLA. O regime de condicionamento mieloablativo foi utilizado em 16 (59,2%) dos pacientes e a profilaxia padrão para DECH (ciclosporina e metotrexate) foi utilizada em 15 (55,5%) dos pacientes. O dia de pega teve uma mediana de 19 e mínimo e máximo de 15 e 30, respectivamente. Quatro pacientes (14,8%) tiveram óbito antes da pega. Aproximadamente 63% (17 pacientes) apresentaram DECH aguda (em todos os estágios) e a taxa de mortalidade (TRM) foi de aproximadamente 44% dos casos (12 pacientes). Os pacientes que receberam TCTH de um doador aparentado tiveram TRM de aproximadamente 41% (7 pacientes) e os que receberam de um doador não aparentado foi de aproximadamente 45% (5 pacientes). A frequência dos antígenos HNA detectados nos doadores foi de 46,4% HNA-1a, 89,3% HNA-1b, 3,6% HNA-1c, 96,4% HNA-3a, 32,1% HNA-3b, 96,4% HNA-4a, 21,4% HNA-4b, 85,7% HNA-5a e 71,4% HNA-5b. A frequência dos anticorpos anti-HNA1a, anti-HNA1b, anti-HNA1c e anti-HNA2 no D0 foram respectivamente 46,4%, 42,9%, 42,9% e 53,6%. A associação entre a tipagem HNA dos doadores e anticorpos anti-HNAdos receptores com dia da pega, DECH aguda e TRM não mostrou correlação estatisticamente significativa. Conclusão. A frequência de HNA encontradanos doadores está de acordo com o descrito pela literatura. Contudo, a frequência dos anticorpos anti-HNAs foi bastante alta na população do estudo, embora a maioria apresentasse doença há menos de 12 meses até o transplante. Apesar de não encontrarmos uma correlação, novos estudos são necessários para melhor avaliar o papel do HNA no desfecho do TCTH. / Background and purpose. Hematopoietic cellular reconstruction with allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is an established method of treatment for a variety of hematological, oncologic and immunologic diseases. However, HSCT is associated with considerable morbidity and mortality due to recurrence of underlying disease, incomplete HLA compatibility, type of conditioning regimen and infection during the unavoidable period of neutropenia. This study investigates a surrogate cause of morbidity: compatibility of Human Neutrophil Antigens (HNA) between donors and receivers and its association with day of engraftment, incidence of acute graft versus host disease (GVHD) and total rate of mortality (TRM) in patients who underwent allogeneic HSCT. Type of study and location. Prospective cohort study carried out at the Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA), Brazil. Methods. We have studied 27 patients who underwent HSCT between May, 2013 and April, 2014, and their respective donors. HNA typing in the donors was performed by PCR-SSP (One Lambda) and anti-HNA antibodies in receivers were detected using the LABSCREEN MULTI kit (LSMUTR-One Lambda). Results. The age ranged from 1 to 63 years, with an average of 20.4 ± 17.5 years. Nineteen were pediatric patients (<21 years) with an average age of 10.05 ± 6.4 years, and among adult patients the average was 42.2 ± 12.6 years. There was a discreet male prevalence, 16 (59,3%). The acute leukemias were frequent in 19 (70,3%) of patients, other malignant onco-hematological diseases (Hodgkin Lymphoma and non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma) in 3 (11,1%) and non-malignant (myelodysplastic syndrome, osteopetrosis, paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, aplasia and granulomatous disease) in 6 (22,2%). Nineteen (70,3%) of the patients, had the disease for less than 12 months at the time of the transplant and 24 (88,9%) were fully HLA compatible with their donors. Myeloablative conditioning regimen was used in 16 (59,3%) of the patients and the standard prophylaxis for GVHD (cyclosporine and methotrexate) was used in 15 (55,5%) of the patients. The day of engraftment had a median of 19 and minimum and maximum of 15 and 30, respectively. Four patients (14,8%) died before the engraftment. Approximately 17 patients (63%) showed acute GVHD (in all stages) and the total rate of mortality (TRM) was approximately 44% of the cases (12 patients). Patients who received HSCT from a related donor had TRM of approximately 41% (7 patients) and those who have received an unrelated donor was approximately 45% (5 patients). The frequency of HNA antigens detected in donors was 46,4% HNA-1a, 89,3% HNA-1b, 3,6% HNA-1c, 96,4% HNA-3a, 32,1% HNA-3b, 96,4% HNA-4a, 21,4% HNA-4b, 85,7% HNA-5a and 71,4% HNA-5b. The frequency of antibodies anti-HNA1a, anti-HNA1b, anti-HNA1c and anti-HNA2 at D0 were respectively 46,4%, 42,9%, 42,9% and 53,6%. The association between the HNA donor typing and anti-HNA antibodies of receivers with day of the engraftment, acute GVHD and TRM showed no statistically significant correlation. Conclusion. The HNA frequency found in our donors was close to the described in the literature. The frequency of anti-HNAs antibodies, however, was quite high in our study population; although the majority presented the disease for less than 12 months before the transplant. The association between HNA donor typing and anti-HNA antibodies of patients with day of engraftment, acute GVHD incidence and TRM showed no statistically significant correlation. As the number of cases was small, further studies with higher numbers and with antigen/antibodies assayed in both sides of transplantation pairs, are needed to better assess the role of the HNAs on the outcome of HSCT.

Introdução: O Transplante Alogênico de Célula Tronco Hematopoiética (TCTH alogênico) é um procedimento de alto potencial curativo para a Leucemia Mielóide Aguda (LMA), principalmente pelo efeito “graft versus leukemia” (GVL), que leva a redução do risco de recaída. Atualmente, os pacientes com LMA de risco intermediário são submetidos ao procedimento caso possuam doador aparentado. Pacientes sem doador aparentado disponível são submetidos a tratamento de consolidação com quimioterapia, com maior chance de recaída da doença. Acredita-se que os pacientes submetidos ao TCTH tenham maiores sobrevida global e livre de doença, a despeito das altas taxas de morbimortalidade. A classificação de risco é extremamente importante para escolha terapêutica pós remissão. Assim, a realização da pesquisa de marcadores moleculares, para refinar a estratificação prognóstica, tem importância especial no grupo de risco intermediário, complementando a avaliação citogenética, e auxiliando na decisão terapêutica, sendo cada vez mais necessária, apesar de não disponível em todos os centros. Material e métodos: Foram avaliados os pacientes com LMA de risco intermediário em primeira Remissão Completa (1RC) do Serviço de Hematologia e TCTH do Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre do período de 01 de abril de 1999 a 01 de outubro de 2014, com pelo menos 1 ano de seguimento após o tratamento, através de revisão de prontuários. Os dados foram dispostos no programa Excel e posteriormente exportados para o programa SPSS v. 18.0 para análise estatística. Resultados: Foram avaliados 69 pacientes, sendo 45 pacientes submetidos a consolidação com quimioterapia (“QT”) e 24 submetidos a TCTH Alogênico (“TCTH Alogênico”). A média de idade do grupo “QT” foi de 47,8 anos e do grupo “TCTH Alogênico” foi de 35,5 anos, com diferença estatisticamente significativa (P<0,001). Não houve diferença na distribuição entre o sexo. A mediana de tempo de seguimento do grupo “QT” foi de 1,1 anos (intervalo interquartil de 0,4 a 2,5 ) e no grupo “TCTH Alogênico” foi de 2,7 anos (intervalo interquartil de 0,4 a 5,5), sem diferença estatisticamente significativa na distribuição dos tempos de seguimento entre os grupos (P=0,236). A sobrevida do grupo “QT” em 12 meses foi de 52,3% e no grupo “TCTH Alogênico” foi de 62,5%. Aos 24 meses, a sobrevida do grupo “QT” foi de 31,7% e no grupo “TCTH Alogênico” foi de 58,3% e em 5 anos de 21,1% e 53,8%, respectivamente. O teste do Long-Rank aponta uma diferença estatisticamente significativa nas sobrevidas entre os grupos após 5 anos, com Hazard Ratio (HR) para óbito de 2,2 (IC 95%: 1,1-4,2), P=0,027, porém ao ajustarmos a relação pela idade esta associação perde significância estatística (HR:1,6 IC95%:1 - 1,1; P=0,246) Discussão: Os dados evidenciaram melhor sobrevida no grupo submetido à TCTH alogênico, porém o grupo submetido ao procedimento apresentava média de idade menor. No entanto, apesar da perda da significância estatística, o HR corrigido para idade permanece maior para o grupo sem TCTH, o que pode dever-se ao “n” pequeno da amostra. Identificar quais pacientes terão benefício com TCTH torna-se cada vez mais um desafio. O uso de marcadores moleculares são importantes no refinamento da estratificação de risco do grupo de risco intermediário, podendo auxiliar nessa decisão. Além disso, com o advento da possibilidade de condicionamentos não mieloablativos como alternativa aos pacientes mais velhos e com escore de comorbidades pior e a melhor terapia de suporte, talvez possamos ser menos conservadores na indicação desse procedimento, identificando assim aqueles que poderão obter melhores resultados no tratamento de uma doença tão agressiva e grave. / Background: Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (allo-HSCT) is a high potentially curative procedure to Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML), mainly by the “graft-versus-leukemia” (GVL) effect, which leads to reduced risk of relapse. Nowadays, intermediate risk AML patients are submitted to this procedure if a matched sibling donor is available. Patients without a sibling donor are submitted to consolidation with chemotherapy, with a greater chance of relapse. It is believed that patients submitted to allo-HSCT have a greater overall survival and disease-free survival, even though it presents high morbidity and mortality rates. Risk stratification is extremely important to post-remission treatment choice. Molecular markers research is especially important in intermediate risk group, complementing cytogenetic evaluation to a better prognostic stratification and, although it is still not available in all health centers, it is more and more necessary. Materials and Methods: We evaluated intermediate risk AML patients in first Complete Remission (CR1) at the Hematology Service and Bone Marrow Transplantation from Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre from April 1st 1999 to October 1st 2014, and which had, at least, a one year follow-up after treatment, by conducting a medical record review. Data was inserted in Microsoft Excel 2010 spreadsheets and after exported to SPSS v. 18.0 to statistical analysis. Results: Among the 69 patients analyzed, 45 were submitted to consolidation with chemotherapy (Intermediate risk AML – non allo-HSCT) and 24 of then submitted to allo-HSCT (Intermediate risk AML – allo-HSCT). The average age of Intermediate risk AML – non allo-HSCT was 47.8 years old and Intermediate risk AML – allo-HSCT was 35.5 years old, with statistically significance difference (P<0,001). There was no difference regard sex of patients. The median follow-up in the Intermediate risk AML – non allo-HSCT was 1.1 years (interquartile rage of 0.4 to 2.5) and in the Intermediate risk AML – allo-HSCT was 2.7 years (interquartile rage of 0.4 to 5.5), with no statistically significance difference in follow-up time distribution between groups (P=0.236). Intermediate risk AML – non allo-HSCT survival in 12 months was 52.3% and in the Intermediate risk AML – allo-HSCT was 62.5%. In 24 months, Intermediate risk AML – non allo-HSCT survival was 31.7% and in Intermediate risk AML – allo HSCT survival was 58.3% and in 5 years it was 21.1% and 53.8% respectively. Long- Rank test indicates a statistically significant difference in survival between groups after 5 years, with hazard ratio (HR) for death of 2.2 (IC95% 1.1 – 4.2), P=0.027, but when we adjust the relation to age, this association loses statistical significance (HR:1.6 95%CI: 1 – 1.1; P=0.246). Discussion: Data showed a better survival rate to the group submitted to allo-HSCT, but the group presented a lower average age. However, despite de loss of statistical significance, Hazard Ratio (HR), adjusted to age remains higher to the non allo-HSCT group. It can be explained by the small number of the sample. Identifying which patients will benefit from allo-HSCT becomes increasingly challenging. The use of molecular markers are important in the refinement of risk stratification in intermediate risk group, assisting in the decision. Moreover, with the advent of the possibility of nonmyeloablative conditioning as an alternative to older patients and with worst rates of comorbidity, and the better supporting therapy, we may be less conservative in indicating this procedure, identifying the patients who may obtain better results during treatment of such aggressive and serious disease.

Introdução: O transplante de células tronco hematopoiéticas é reconhecidamente uma opção terapêutica para doenças neoplásicas hematológicas, tumores sólidos, deficiências imunológicas e doenças metabólicas. É um procedimento associado a uma alta freqüência de complicações agudas e crônicas, causadas pela toxicidade do regime de condicionamento, dentre elas a mucosite, Doença do Enxerto versus Hospedeiro - DECH e infecções. Essas complicações podem causar grandes mudanças na composição corporal através de mudanças no metabolismo, piorando o estado nutricional. Um adequado consumo de alguns micronutrientes como zinco, vitamina D e ferro, tem sido investigado como forma de evitar ou minimizar essas complicações. Objetivo: Avaliar em pacientes submetidos a transplante de células tronco hematopoiéticas os níveis séricos de zinco, vitamina D e ferritina e o seu impacto nos desfechos do TCTH alogênico e os níveis de ingestão de zinco, vitamina D e ferro. Métodos: Foram avaliadas as dosagens séricas de zinco, vitamina D e ferritina, e os níveis de ingestão de zinco, vitamina D e ferro, os tipos de condicionamento, o grau de DECH e mucosite, a presença de infecções e o estado nutricional. Resultado: Foram incluídos na análise 32 pacientes. Não foi encontrado associação significativa entre a deficiência sérica de Zinco e mucosite e os níveis elevados de ferritina sérica com a ocorrência de infecções. Deficiência sérica de vitamina D aos 45 dias pós transplante foi associado com o desenvolvimento de DECH. Conclusão: Os nossos resultados reforçam a importância dos pacientes manterem os níveis adequados de micronutrientes e reforçam o papel da vitamina D na prevenção de DECH durante o TCTH. / Introduction: The transplantation of hematopoietic stem cells is recognized as a treatment option for hematological neoplastic diseases, solid tumors, immune deficiencies and metabolic diseases. It is a procedure associated with a high frequency of acute and chronic complications caused by the toxicity of the conditioning regimen, among them mucositis, Graft-versus-Host Disease - GVHD and infections. These complications can cause major changes in body composition through changes in metabolism, worsening the nutritional status. An adequate intake of some micronutrients such as zinc, vitamin D and iron, has been investigated as a way to avoid or minimize these complications. Objective: To evaluate in patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation serum levels of zinc, vitamin D and ferritin and its impact on the outcomes of allogeneic HSCT and zinc intake levels of vitamin D and iron. Method: The following aspects were evaluated: serum levels of zinc, vitamin D and ferritin, and zinc intake levels of vitamin D and iron, the conditioning types, the degree of GVHD and mucositis, the presence of infections, the nutritional status. Result: The analysis included 32 patients. No significant association has been found between zinc serum deficiency and mucositis and elevated levels of serum ferritin with the occurrence of infections. The serum deficiency of vitamin D at 45 days post-transplantation has been associated with the development of GVHD. Conclusion: Our results reinforce that it is important for the patients to maintain adequate levels of micronutrients and reinforce the role of vitamin D in the prevention of GVHD during the HSCT. Keywords: hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, GVHD, mucositis, infections, Vitamin D, ferritin, zinc, nutritional status.

Made available in DSpace on 2015-12-06T23:47:44Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2008 / Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq) / O Infarto do Miocárdio (IM) é uma das principais causas de morte súbita, insuficiência cardíaca (IC) e perda da qualidade de vida. Como o coração tem capacidade limitada de regeneração, terapias como o implante de células-tronco vem sendo desenvolvidas. O objetivo deste trabalho foi estudar o implante de células mononucleares derivadas da medula-óssea no IM experimental em ratos, avaliando seus efeitos sobre o remodelamento miocárdico, função ventricular global e contratilidade do miocárdico remoto ao infarto. Para tanto, utilizou-se injeção intramiocárdica de células da medula-óssea (BMC) de ratos machos Lewis-inbred, 48 horas após oclusão da artéria coronária interventricular anterior em ratas da mesma linhagem. Após seis semanas, foi analisada função cardíaca global in vivo por ecocardiografia Doppler e avaliação hemodinâmica, seguida do estudo in vitro da mecânica contrátil do miocárdio remanescente representado pelo músculo papilar isolado. Posteriormente, realizaram-se estudos histopatológicos dos processos de fibrose intersticial (coloração com picrossirius red), hipertrofia (volume nuclear do miócito) e densidade capilar (coloração com ácido periódico de Schiff); e avaliação por Western blotting de proteínas envolvidas na contração no tecido remoto ao infarto: Ca2+-ATPase do retículo sarcoplasmático (SERCA2), fosfolamban total (PLB) e fosforilado (PLB-Ser16), trocador Na+ /Ca2+ (NCX), e isoformas α1 e α2 da Na+ /K+ -ATPase (NKA). Os ratos foram distribuídos em infartos moderados (30- 39% do VE = mIM) e grandes (≥ 40% do VE = IM), tratados (grupos mIM+BMC e IM+BMC) ou não tratados (grupos mIM e IM), e comparados ao grupo sem infarto nem terapia (SHAM). P < 0,05 foi considerado significante. A mortalidade durante os procedimentos ou acompanhamento não foi diferente entre os grupos. A análise por PCR identificou cromossomo Y de células de macho implantadas em amostras coletadas de corações de fêmeas desde dez minutos após implante até seis semanas, com intensidade decrescente. Após seis semanas o tamanho do infarto foi discretamente menor em IM+BMC (38 ± 1%) que em IM (44 ± 1%), e também em mIM+BMC (31 ± 1%) comparado aos mIM (34 ± 1% do VE). IM+BMC cursou com menor dilatação ventricular (45 ± 10%) que IM (86 ± 7%) com melhora da fração de encurtamento do VE em 20 ± 9% e menor incidência de hipertensão pulmonar, enquanto mIM e mIM+BMC demonstraram comportamento semelhante. O aumento na pressão diastólica final (PDf) somente detectado em IM (16 ± 2 mm Hg) assim como a depressão da +dP/dtmáx (7.727 ± 367 mm Hg/s) foram prevenidos em IM+BMC (5 ± 2 mm Hg e 9.035 ± 345 mm Hg/s). Os demais parâmetros hemodinâmicos analisados sob condições basais não foram diferentes do grupo SHAM. Entretanto, a sobrecarga pressórica súbita reduziu sensivelmente o volume ejetado em mIM (-46 ± 4%) e IM (-63 ± 4%), mas apenas discretamente em mIM+BMC (-12 ± 6%) e IM+BMC (-20 ± 3%) semelhante aos -9 ± 4% de SHAM. A correlação estabelecida entre aumento na pós-carga e geração de trabalho sistólico mostrou-se positiva nos SHAM (inclinação média de 0,75 ± 0,09) e nos tratados mIM+BMC (0,74 ± 0,12) e IM+BMC (0,52 ± 0,05), mas nitidamente negativa nos grupos infartados sem terapia (mIM: inclinação = -0,38 ± 0,05; e IM: -0,97 ± 0,1). Pelo estudo do músculo papilar, a tensão desenvolvida (g.mm-2) foi deprimida em IM (2,4 ± 0,2) e mIM (3,8 ± 0,4) em relação a mIM+BMC (5,5 ± 0,5), IM+BMC (5,6 ± 0,4) e SHAM (6,1 ± 0,3). Ademais, os coeficientes de inclinação das retas da relação estiramento vs. tensão desenvolvida (g.mm-2 / % do comprimento ótimo) estavam deprimidos nos mIM (0,19 ± 0,01) e IM (0,13 ± 0,02) comparados ao SHAM (0,29 ± 0,02), e normais em mIM+BMC (0,25 ± 0,02) e IM+BMC (0,26 ± 0,03) demonstrando integridade do mecanismo de Frank-Starling no músculo remanescente. Os prejuízos, em mIM e IM, da potenciação pós-pausa de de estímulos, manobra indicadora da integridade da cinética do cálcio no miócito, foram parcialmente prevenidos por BMC. As diminuições, identificadas em mIM e IM, da expressão protéica da SERCA2 (66 ± 7 e 54 ± 6% do SHAM), PLB (72 ± 4 e 52 ± 9%) e PLB-Ser16 (71 ± 6 e 35 ± 10%) foram atenuadas em mIM+BMC e IM+BMC (SERCA2: 84 ± 11 e 94 ± 10%, PLB: 83 ± 7 e 89 ± 7%, e PLB-Ser16: 104 ± 14 e 90 ± 8%). O NCX foi superexpresso em IM (198 ± 29 % do SHAM) e normal nos demais grupos, e enquanto α1-NKA não foi diferente em nenhum grupo, a depressão na quantidade de α2-NKA (mIM: 47 ± 10 e IM: 35 ± 10%) não foi significantemente prevenida com BMC (mIM+BMC: 61 ± 10 e IM+BMC: 63 ± 16% do SHAM). A análise histopatológica mostrou aumento significante do volume nuclear (μm3 ) no miocárdio remodelado de mIM (188 ± 7) e IM (219 ± 9) em comparação ao SHAM (129 ± 8), e prevenção parcial de hipertrofia miocárdica em mIM+BMC (147 ± 8) e IM+BMC (165 ± 8). Já o teor de colágeno intersticial mostrou-se elevado de forma significativa somente nos grandes infartos (2,4 ± 0,1 % da área analisada), mas aparentemente normal em IM+BMC (1,9 ± 0,06 %) comparados ao SHAM (1,5 ± 0,1 %). Na zona de transição entre o infarto e o miocárdio adjacente, além de BMC promover aumento da densidade capilar em mIM+BMC (2.805 ± 109 vs. mIM: 1.933 ± 183 capilares/mm2 ) e IM+BMC (2.702 ± 81 vs. IM: 1.981 ± 115), também houve aumento na relação capilar/cardiomiócito (mIM+BMC: 1,68 ± 0,06 vs. mIM: 1,13 ± 0,02; e IM+BMC: 1,50 ± 0,06 vs. IM: 1,17 ± 0,04). A densidade capilar no miocárdio remoto ao infarto mostrou-se significantemente diminuída nos infartos sem terapia (mIM: 2.924 ± 120; e IM: 2.454 ± 90 capilares/mm2 ) em relação ao SHAM (3.691 ± 248), mas praticamente preservada nos tratados (mIM+BMC: 3.379 ± 103; e IM+BMC: 3.239 ± 129); e também relação entre capilar/cardiomiócito menor em mIM (1,32 ± 0,05 capilar/cardiomiócito) e IM (1,28 ± 0,04) e equivalentes ao SHAM (1,71 ± 0,10) nos grupos mIM+BMC (1,57 ± 0,06) e IM+BMC (1,64 ± 0,02). Finalmente, conclui-se que a terapia com BMC restringe a repercussão pós-infarto observada tanto na função cardíaca global e desempenho ventricular, quanto nos parâmetros de remodelamento estrutural do miocárdio remanescente relacionados à hipertrofia, fibrose e vascularização. Ademais, reduz as alterações moleculares das proteínas relacionadas à cinética intracelular do cálcio preservando, dessa maneira, a função contrátil do miocárdio remoto ao infarto e implante celular. Parece que estes benefícios ocorrem em conjunto com a diminuição da extensão relativa do infarto do miocárdio sem, entretanto, manter dependência a este fenômeno, visto que a maioria dos parâmetros avaliados foi mais eficiente no grupo IM+BMC do que em IM e mesmo em mIM. A reunião destes dados permite sugerir que a terapia com células mononucleares derivadas de medula-óssea pode agir não só sobre o infarto e zona de transição, mas também na melhora da função do miocárdio remoto, provavelmente por ações parácrinas e/ou endócrinas também mediadoras do processo de remodelamento tecidual e celular. / Myocardium infarction is a major cause of sudden death, heart failure with impaired quality of life. Since the heart exhibits limited regenerative capability, alternative interventions as the stem cell therapy have been developed. Our aim was to study the transplantation of bone marrow-derived mononuclear cells (BMC) in the myocardial infarction in rats, evaluating its effects on the global cardiac function, remodeling and contractility of remnant myocardium. The BMC extracted from male Lewis-inbred rats were intramyocardially injected into the border zone of infarct, 48 hours after coronary occlusion in female rats. After six weeks the in vivo global cardiac function was analyzed by Doppler echocardiography and hemodynamics, and the in vitro mechanics of the remnant myocardium by the isolated papillary muscle study. Thereafter, the following histopathological evaluations were performed: interstitial fibrosis (picrossirius red staining), hypertrophy (myocyte nuclear volume) and capillary density (PAS staining); and myocardium content of calcium handling proteins by Western blotting: sarco-endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+- ATPase (SERCA2), total (PLB) and serine16 phosphorylated phospholamban (PLBSer16), sarcolemmal Na+ /Ca2+ exchanger (NCX), and α1 and α2 isoforms of Na+ /K+ - ATPase (NKA). Rats were distributed in moderate (30-39% of left ventricle = mIM) and large MI (≥ 40% of left ventricle = IM), and treated with BMC (mIM+BMC and IM+BMC groups) or saline injection (mIM and IM groups), compared to shamoperated and placebo-treated group (SHAM). P < 0.05 was considered for statistical significance. Mortality during surgical procedures and follow-up was not different among the groups. The polymerase chain reaction identified Y chromosome of implanted male cells in samples collected from female hearts 10 minutes, 2 days, 1 and 6 weeks following therapy, with decreasing intensity. After six weeks, infarct size was slightly smaller in IM+BMC (38 ± 1% of left ventricle) than in IM (44 ± 1%), and also in mIM+BMC (31 ± 1%) compared to mIM (34 ± 1%). IM+BMC exhibited less ventricular dilatation (45 ± 10%) than IM (86 ± 7%) with improved fractional ventricular shortening by 20 ± 9%, while mIM and mIM+BMC were similar. Increased end-diastolic pressure (PDf) in IM (16 ± 2 mm Hg) and depressed rate of pressure raise (7,727 ± 367 mm Hg/s) were totally prevented by BMC (5 ± 2 mm Hg e 9,035 ± 345 mm Hg/s). Under basal conditions, ejective parameters were not different to SHAM. Notwithstanding, sudden pressure overload expressively reduced stroke volume in mIM (-46 ± 4%) and IM (-63 ± 4%) but just minimally in mIM+BMC (-12 ± 6%) and IM+BMC (-20 ± 3%) similar to SHAM (-9 ± 4%). Correlations between afterload stress and stroke work generation were positive in SHAM (mean slope: 0.75 ± 0.09) and treated mIM+BMC (0.74 ± 0.12) and IM+BMC (0.52 ± 0.05), but were negative in infarcted untreated groups (mIM: -0.38 ± 0.05; and IM: -0.97 ± 0.1). On the papillary muscles study, developed tension was impaired in IM (2.4 ± 0.2 g.mm-2) and mIM (3.8 ± 0.4) and preserved in mIM+BMC (5.5 ± 0.5) and IM+BMC (5.6 ± 0.4) compared to SHAM (6.1 ± 0.3). In addition, slope of the length-tension relation was depressed in mIM (0.19 ± 0.01) and IM (0.13 ± 0.02) in comparison to SHAM (0.29 ± 0.02), and normal in mIM+BMC (0.25 ± 0.02) and IM+BMC (0.26 ± 0.03) showing preservation of Frank-Starling relationship. The impaired post-rest potentiation in mIM and IM (denoting damaged calcium handling) were partially but significantly prevented by BMC. The decrement, identified in mIM and IM, on the protein content of SERCA2 (66 ± 7 and 54 ± 6% of SHAM), PLB (72 ± 4 and 52 ± 9%) and PLB-Ser16 (71 ± 6 and 35 ± 10%), were attenuated in mIM+BMC and IM+BMC (SERCA2: 84 ± 11 and 94 ± 10%, PLB: 83 ± 7 and 89 ± 7%, PLB-Ser16: 104 ± 14 and 90 ± 8%). NCX was over-expressed in IM (198 ± 29 % of SHAM) but normal in BMC groups, and while α1-NKA remained unchanged in all groups, diminished content of α2-NKA (mIM: 47 ± 10 and IM: 35 ± 10%) was not prevented by BMC (mIM+BMC: 61 ± 10 and IM+BMC: 63 ± 16% of SHAM). Histological analysis showed significant increase of nuclear volume (μm3 ) on remodeled myocardium of mIM (188 ± 7) and IM (219 ± 9) in comparison to SHAM (129 ± 8), but partial prevention of the myocyte hypertrophy in mIM+BMC (147 ± 8) and IM+BMC (165 ± 8). Interstitial collagen was significantly increased only in IM (2.4 ± 0.1 % of analyzed area), but apparently normal in IM+BMC (1.9 ± 0.06 %) compared to SHAM (1.5 ± 0.1 %). In the border zone, besides promoting enhanced capillary density in mIM+BMC (2,805 ± 109 vs. mIM: 1,933 ± 183 capillaries/mm2 ) and IM+BMC (2,702 ± 81 vs. IM: 1,981 ± 115), cell therapy also increased capillaries/myocyte ratio (mIM+BMC: 1.68 ± 0.06 vs. mIM: 1.13 ± 0.02; and IM+BMC: 1.50 ± 0.06 vs. IM: 1.17 ± 0.04). In the remodeled myocardium remote to infarct, capillary density was decreased on infarcted untreated groups (mIM: 2,924 ± 120; and IM: 2,454 ± 90 capillaries/mm2 ) in relation to SHAM (3,691 ± 248), but almost totally preserved in mIM+BMC (3,379 ± 103) and IM+BMC (3,239 ± 129); capillaries/myocyte ratio was smaller in mIM (1.32 ± 0.05 capillaries/myocyte) and IM (1.28 ± 0.04), but equivalent to SHAM (1.71 ± 0.10) in mIM+BMC (1.57 ± 0.06) and IM+BMC (1.64 ± 0.02). Thus, the data demonstrates that BMC restrained the postinfarction repercussions concerning global cardiac function and ventricular performance, as well as the structural remodeling in remnant myocardium related to hypertrophy, fibrosis and microvasculature. Furthermore, this therapy reduced the calcium-handling protein changes, thus preserving the contractile behavior of myocardium remote to infarct and cell injection sites. The obtained results suggests that the bone marrow-derived mononuclear cell therapy may act beyond the infarct and border zones, also improving the function of remote tissue, modulating interstitial and cellular remodeling probably throughout paracrine and/or endocrine pathways. / BV UNIFESP: Teses e dissertações