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Seeding and Implantation of a Biosynthetic Tissue-engineered Tracheal Graft in a Mouse Model
Published on: April 1, 2019
Hydrated xenogeneic decellularized tracheal matrix as a scaffold for tracheal reconstruction
Nathaniel T Remlinger1, Caitlin A Czajka, Mark E Juhas
1McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, PA 15219, USA.
Biomaterials
|February 11, 2010
Summary
This study explored using decellularized porcine tracheal extracellular matrix (HDTM) as a tracheal replacement graft. HDTM shows short-term mechanical integrity and supports epithelial growth but requires further development for long-term cartilage regeneration.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Regenerative Medicine
- Tissue Engineering
Background:
- Tracheal reconstruction is challenging due to limitations in surgical resection length.
- Complications like tension and poor vascular supply hinder primary tracheal repairs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate hydrated decellularized tracheal matrix (HDTM) from porcine sources as a potential tracheal graft.
- To assess the biochemical and biomechanical properties of HDTM grafts.
Main Methods:
- Porcine tracheas were decellularized to create HDTM.
- HDTM grafts were implanted heterotopically and orthotopically in a canine model for 2 and 8 weeks.
- Histologic, bronchoscopic, and radiographic analyses were performed.
Main Results:
- HDTM maintained mechanical properties under physiological loading for 8 weeks.
- Implanted grafts supported the development of a ciliated epithelium.
- Cartilage structures showed degradation and limited new cartilage formation.
Conclusions:
- HDTM scaffolds provide short-term mechanical integrity and support site-specific epithelialization.
- Long-term tracheal graft success may necessitate pre-implantation vascularization or chondrocyte seeding.
