CD1d blockade suppresses the capacity of immature dendritic cells to prime allogeneic T cell response.

Background: Dendritic cells (DCs) are the principal antigen-presenting cells involved in primary immune response and immunoregulation. The function of DCs is believed to depend on their degree of maturation. Mature DCs activate immune responses, whereas immature DCs (imDCs) tend to induce immune tolerance.

Case control study of gastrointestinal complications after cardiopulmonary bypass heart surgery.

Background: Gastrointestinal complications (GIC) after cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) surgery are rare, but, nevertheless, extremely dangerous.The identification of risks for GIC may be helpful in planning appropriate perioperative management strategies. The aim of the present study was to analyze perioperative factors of GIC in patients undergoing CPB surgery.

Anti-rejection effect of ethanol extract of Poria cocos wolf in rats after cardiac allograft implantation.

Background: A living fetus within the maternal uterus provides an example of allogene tolerance in mammals. Poria cocos Wolf is the main component of many Chinese medicinal combination drugs that have therapeutic effects on recurrent spontaneous abortion and that can maintain pregnancy until delivery. It was hypothesized that this herbal medicine can also prolong allograft survival after organ transplantation.