Optimizing the mouse orthotopic liver transplantation model: Learning curve, technical enhancements, and keys to success

Due to the easier availability of transgenic mice and reagents, the mouse orthotopic liver transplantation model offers significant advantages in liver transplantation research. However, technical challenges have limited its broader application. The most challenging steps of the procedure include manual anastomosis of the suprahepatic vena cava, cuff anastomosis of the portal vein, and maintaining the anhepatic phase within 20 minutes. This study aims to provide detailed solutions to overcome these bottlenecks and introduces a modified magnetic device to facilitate safer and more efficient cuff anastomosis. We also describe the learning curve for beginners to achieve a 30-day survival rate exceeding 90% in mouse orthotopic liver transplantation. We demonstrate that mouse orthotopic liver transplantation can be mastered within 8 months of continuous practice, with 7-day and 30-day survival rates improving from 0% to 96.7% and 0% to 93.3%, respectively. The entire procedure can be completed within 80 minutes. We believe these technical improvements will provide more practical guidance for mouse liver transplantation.