Comparative Impact on Islet Isolation and Transplant Outcome of the Preservation Solutions Institut Georges Lopez-1, University of Wisconsin, and Celsior

Background. Institut Georges Lopez-1 (IGL-1) is a preservation solution similar to University of Wisconsin (UW) with reversed Na/K contents. In this study, we assessed the impact of IGL-1, UW, and Celsior (CS) solutions on islet isolation and transplant outcome. Methods. We retrospectively analyzed 376 islet isolations from pancreases flushed and transported with IGL-1 (n=95), UW (n=204), or CS (n=77). We determined isolation outcome and beta-cell function in vitro. Transplanted patients were divided into three groups depending on preservation solution of pancreas, and islet graft function was assessed by decrease in daily insulin needs, C-peptide/glucose ratios, beta-scores, and transplant estimated function at 1- and 6-month follow-up. Results. IGL-1, UW, and CS groups were similar according to donor age, body mass index, and pancreas weight. There was no difference in islet yields between the three groups. Success rates, transplant rates, beta-cell secretory function, and viability were similar for all three groups. We observed no difference in decreased insulin needs, C-peptide glucose ratios, beta-scores, and transplant estimated function at 1- and 6-month follow-up between IGL-1, UW, and CS groups. Conclusions. Our study shows that IGL-1 is equivalent to UW or CS solutions for pancreas perfusion and cold storage before islet isolation and transplantation.