RESUMO
PURPOSE: A new technique for stem cells intrapancreatic autotransplantation in rats. BASIC PROCEDURES: Section of a femoral diaphysis and aspirations of the bone marrow in both femoral segments were performed. A Kirschner needle was placed into the femur. Cells were isolated in Ficoll gradients and preserved at 4-6 degrees C. The second day, cells were injected, via aortic celiac trunk, into the pancreas of the same rat. RESULTS: Femoral surgery were well tolerated. Intrapancreatic homing of the injected cells was suggested with methylene blue injection that stained the pancreas, and proved by labeled cells in pancreas sections. Cell counts after Ficoll isolation were 1 x 10(6) +/- 2 x 10(5) ES. CONCLUSIONS: A technique is described for stem cell autotransplantation in rats. First we obtain autologous bone marrow-derived stem cells. Second, we inject the cells in the pancreas of the donor rat. This approach can be applied to experimental diabetes and other pancreatic processes.