Effects of various HTK solution regimens on proteinuria after renal transplantation in dogs

Investigations were carried out by means of an autologous, heterotopic model for kidney transplantation applied to dogs. Duration of cold ischemia was 48 h. Four experimental groups were arranged. During the first 20 min following revitalization of the transplanted kidney, group 1 (HTK solution/80 cm perfusion height) showed a significant glomerular and tubular malfunction. In group 2 (HTK solution/120 cm perfusion height), only four urinary proteins with molecular weights of 25 kDa, 67 kDa, 100 kDa and >100 kDa were found. The excretion of higher molecular proteins receded over the 20-min period of observation. In both group 3 (HTK/aspartate solution) and group 4 (HTK/tryptophan solution) the quantity of excreted glomerular and tubular protein was well above that of group 2. As opposed to the Tryptophan group, a complete restoration of renal function was observed in the Aspartate group after 4 weeks. In general, the standard HTK protective solution delivered with 120 cm perfusion pressure gave the most favorable results, with the lowest levels of proteinuria and a satisfactory recovery of renal function after revitalization.