Effect of isolation techniques on the lymphocyte stimulatory capacity of islets of Langerhans in vitro

Isolation techniques were found to be most important in determining immunogenicity. Only enzymatically treated islets provoked an immune response. Moreover, autologous lymphoproliferation could be enhanced with additional trypsin dispersion and neuraminidase treatment. This may suggest that islet differentiation antigens were altered or exposed through enzymatic treatment and thereby rendered immunogenic. Moreover, this induction of in vitro autoimmunity through enzymatic attack may provide a model for autoimmunity in diabetes mellitus (viruses, beta cell toxins) and in rejection of pancreatic transplants initiated through alloimmunity.