immunoisolate

Immunoisolate refers to a technique or a specific type of material used in medical and biological research to prevent immune responses or reactions. The primary goal of an immunoisolate is to shield a target, such as a transplanted organ, a therapeutic cell, or a vaccine component, from the host's immune system. This shielding is crucial for the success of various medical interventions, particularly those involving foreign biological material.

The concept of immunoisolation is often employed in xenotransplantation, where organs from one species are transplanted into another. By encapsulating the transplanted organ in a semipermeable membrane, the cells of the organ are protected from immune attack, while essential nutrients and oxygen can still reach them. Similarly, immunoisolation is used in the development of encapsulated cell therapies. For example, pancreatic islet cells for diabetes treatment can be enclosed in a bio-compatible material that allows glucose and insulin to pass through but prevents immune cells from reaching and destroying the islets.

Materials used for immunoisolation are typically biocompatible and possess specific pore sizes. These pores are large enough to permit the exchange of small molecules like oxygen, nutrients, and waste products, but small enough to block the passage of larger immune components such as antibodies and lymphocytes. Common materials include alginate, hydrogels, and specialized polymers. The effectiveness of an immunoisolate is determined by its ability to maintain the viability and function of the encapsulated target while preventing immune rejection.