| abstract |
Cells obtained by genetic engineering which can serve as universal donor cells in applications such as the reconstruction of interior vascular coatings or the administration of therapeutic agents. Said cells comprise a DNA sequence which is expressed by the cell and which codes for a protein having complementary inhibitory activity and which provides protection against complement-based lysis, that is to say against hyperacute rejection. In addition, the natural genome of the cell is modified, so that proteins encoded by the genes of the major histocompatibility complex of class I and class II or class II only do not appear on the surface of the cell. In this way, attacks due to T lymphocites are avoided. Said cells can include a self-destruct mechanism so that they can be evacuated from the host when they are no longer needed. |