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Optimal cell source for cardiovascular tissue engineering: venous vs. aortic human myofibroblasts.
A M Schnell1, S P Hoerstrup, G Zund
1Clinic for Cardiovascular Surgery, University Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland.
The Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgeon
|August 16, 2001
Summary
Saphenous vein cells show promise for cardiovascular tissue engineering. These cells, when cultured on scaffolds, produced superior collagen and mechanical strength compared to aortic cells.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Regenerative Medicine
- Vascular Biology
Background:
- Arterial vascular cells are used in cardiovascular tissue engineering.
- An accessible alternative cell source is needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- Evaluate saphenous vein-derived myofibroblasts for cardiovascular tissue engineering.
- Compare vein-derived cells to aortic cells on polyurethane scaffolds.
Main Methods:
- Seeding biodegradable polyurethane scaffolds with human myofibroblasts.
- Using cells from ascending aorta (Group A) and saphenous vein (Group B).
- Histology, electron microscopy, mechanical testing, DNA, and collagen assays.
Main Results:
- Comparable cell proliferation (DNA) between groups.
- Significantly higher collagen content and mechanical strength in saphenous vein group (Group B).
- Viable, layered cellular tissue observed, with pronounced collagen fibrils in Group B.
Conclusions:
- Saphenous vein myofibroblasts demonstrate excellent in vitro tissue generation.
- Vein-derived cell constructs exhibit superior collagen formation and mechanical properties.
- Saphenous vein cells are a promising, accessible alternative for cardiovascular tissue engineering.