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Novel Process for 3D Printing Decellularized Matrices
Published on: January 7, 2019
Development and characterization of acellular allogeneic arterial matrices
Stacy-Paul Wilshaw1, Paul Rooney, Helen Berry
1Faculty of Biological Sciences, Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering, The University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom. s.wilshaw@leeds.ac.uk
Tissue Engineering. Part A
|September 17, 2011
Summary
Researchers developed a decellularization protocol for human femoral arteries, creating cell-free vascular grafts. This method preserves tissue structure and mechanical properties, offering a promising alternative for vascular bypass and arteriovenous access.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Vascular Surgery
- Tissue Engineering
Background:
- Cryopreserved vascular allografts are used for arterial disease but can cause rejection due to viable cells.
- Cell removal could prevent immune responses and eliminate the need for ultra-low temperature storage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize human common femoral arteries.
- To develop a decellularization protocol for creating biocompatible and biomechanically functional vascular grafts for bypass and arteriovenous access.
Main Methods:
- Human common femoral arteries were decellularized using freeze-thaw cycles, hypotonic tris buffer, and sodium dodecyl sulfate.
- Disinfection was performed with peracetic acid.
- Histological, DNA, cytotoxicity, and biomechanical (burst pressure, compliance, tensile) tests were conducted.
Main Results:
- Decellularization successfully removed cells (>95% DNA reduction) while preserving tissue architecture and major structural proteins.
- Acellular tissues and extracts showed no cytotoxicity to tested cell lines.
- Biomechanical properties were retained post-decellularization.
Conclusions:
- A protocol was developed to effectively decellularize human common femoral arteries.
- The acellular grafts maintain biochemical and biomechanical integrity.
- These acellular grafts show potential for vascular bypass and arteriovenous access applications.
