| abstract |
Genetically engineered cells are provided whichncan serve as universal donor cells in suchnapplications as reconstruction of vascular linings ornthe administration of therapeutic agents. The cellsninclude a DNA sequence which is expressed by the cellnand which codes for a protein having complementninhibitory activity and which provides protectionnagainst complement-based lysis, i.e. hyperacutenrejection. In addition, the cell's natural genome isnchanged so that proteins encoded by the class I ornclass II major histocompatability complex genes do notnappear on the cell's surface. In this way, attack bynT-cells is avoided. Optionally the cells can includena self-destruction mechanism so that they can benremoved from the host when no longer needed. |