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Published on: March 27, 2017
Evaluation of tissue-engineered vascular autografts
Goki Matsumura1, Yoko Ishihara, Sachiko Miyagawa-Tomita
1Cardiovascular Surgery, Heart Institute of Japan, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo, Japan. smatumur@hij.twmu.ac.jp
Tissue Engineering
|May 24, 2007
Summary
Tissue-engineered vascular autografts (TEVAs) using bone marrow cells showed functional endothelial cells and good mechanical properties in a canine model. These biocompatible TEVAs mimic native vessels without adverse effects.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Regenerative Medicine
- Vascular Biology
Background:
- Tissue-engineered vascular autografts (TEVAs) offer a promising alternative to synthetic grafts.
- Evaluating their endothelial function and mechanical properties is crucial for clinical translation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the endothelial function and mechanical properties of TEVAs created with autologous mononuclear bone marrow cells (MN-BMCs) and a biodegradable scaffold.
- To evaluate the biocompatibility and long-term performance of TEVAs in a canine inferior vena cava (IVC) model.
Main Methods:
- Autologous MN-BMCs were seeded onto a biodegradable scaffold (polyglycolide fiber and poly(L-lactide-co-epsilon-caprolactone) sponge).
- The TEVA was implanted into the canine IVC.
- Biochemical, biomechanical, and histological analyses were performed post-implantation.
Main Results:
- TEVAs demonstrated dose-dependent nitrate/nitrite production upon acetylcholine stimulation, inhibited by N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methylester.
- Endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) expression was confirmed, with eNOS/s17 mRNA ratios similar to native IVC at 1 and 3 months.
- At 6 months, TEVAs exhibited comparable biochemical properties and wall thickness to native IVC, with no calcification or adverse reactions.
Conclusions:
- TEVAs composed of MN-BMCs and biodegradable scaffolds possess functional endothelium and suitable biomechanical properties.
- These TEVAs are biocompatible, integrate well, and show no significant adverse effects, indicating their potential for vascular reconstruction.
