Human NELL1 protein augments constructive tissue remodeling with biologic scaffolds

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Tissue Engineering

Background:

• Biologic scaffolds from decellularized tissues promote functional tissue remodeling after injury.
• Engineered scaffolds of purified components like collagen may lack factors for optimal remodeling.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate if NELL1 protein enhances constructive remodeling in purified collagen scaffolds.
• To compare NELL1-augmented collagen scaffolds with small intestinal submucosa-extracellular matrix (SIS-ECM) scaffolds.

Main Methods:

• Used a rat abdominal wall defect model (1.5-cm2 partial thickness).
• Compared bovine type I collagen scaffolds with and without 17 μg NELL1 to SIS-ECM scaffolds.
• Evaluated samples histologically at 14 days and 4 months; assessed contractile response at 4 months.

Main Results:

• NELL1 significantly improved constructive remodeling in collagen scaffolds.
• Collagen scaffolds with NELL1 showed increased contractile force and native-like muscle composition.
• NELL1 did not further enhance the remodeling response of SIS-ECM scaffolds at the tested dose.

Conclusions:

• NELL1 protein contributes to enhanced constructive remodeling of skeletal muscle tissue.
• NELL1 augmentation is a promising strategy for improving collagen-based tissue engineering scaffolds.