[Comparison of aortic extracellular matrix scaffold by different protocols for decellularization].

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Cardiovascular Research

Background:

• Development of tissue-engineered vascular grafts requires biocompatible scaffolds.
• Extracellular matrix (ECM) derived from native vessels offers a promising biomaterial.
• Porcine aorta serves as a suitable source for ECM scaffold preparation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To optimize decellularization protocols for porcine ascending aorta.
• To evaluate the efficiency of decellularization, ECM integrity, biomechanical properties, and biocompatibility.
• To identify the most suitable method for creating aortic ECM scaffolds.

Main Methods:

• Porcine ascending aortas were decellularized using five different protocols (Groups A-E) and compared to a control (Group F).
• Scaffolds were analyzed for decellularization efficiency, ECM microstructure, collagen/elastin integrity, and biomechanical properties.
• In vivo biocompatibility and immunogenicity were assessed by implanting scaffolds in Sprague Dawley rats.

Main Results:

• Complete cell removal was achieved with trypsin/EDTA (Group A) and sodium deoxycholate/sodium dodecyl sulfate (Group D).
• Group D scaffolds maintained basement membrane integrity and biomechanical properties similar to native aorta, with minimal collagen I damage.
• Group D scaffolds exhibited superior biocompatibility and lower inflammatory responses in vivo compared to other groups.

Conclusions:

• A decellularization protocol using 0.5% sodium deoxycholic acid and 0.5% sodium dodecyl sulfate is optimal for porcine aorta.
• The resulting ECM scaffold demonstrates excellent biocompatibility and biomechanical integrity.
• This optimized scaffold holds significant potential for constructing tissue-engineered vascular grafts.