Novel perfusion-decellularized method to prepare decellularized ureters for ureteral tissue-engineered repair

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Urology

Background:

• Ureteral injuries are increasing due to widespread endoscopic procedures.
• Current surgical treatments for ureteral reconstruction have limitations.
• Tissue engineering offers a promising alternative for urinary tract repair.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a novel perfusion-decellularized protocol for ureteral tissue engineering.
• To assess the viability, adhesion, proliferation, and distribution of urinary tract-derived cells (UDCs) on decellularized ureters.
• To determine the efficacy of decellularized ureters as a scaffold for ureteral reconstruction.

Main Methods:

• A novel perfusion-decellularized protocol combining physical and chemical methods was employed.
• Decellularized ureters were characterized using H&E staining, DAPI staining, and agarose gel electrophoresis.
• DNA content, 3D ultrastructure, and extracellular matrix (ECM) composition were analyzed.
• Urinary tract-derived cells (UDCs) were seeded onto decellularized ureters to evaluate cell behavior.

Main Results:

• The novel protocol efficiently removed cellular components, reducing DNA content to 2% residue.
• Decellularization time was significantly shorter compared to previous studies.
• The 3D ultrastructure and ECM composition (collagen, glycosaminoglycan) of the decellularized ureters were well preserved.
• UDCs successfully adhered, proliferated, and formed multilayered, laminated structures on the decellularized scaffolds.

Conclusions:

• The novel perfusion-decellularized method provides an effective way to prepare decellularized ureters.
• The decellularized ureters retain essential structural and compositional integrity for tissue engineering.
• These decellularized ureters show potential as a viable scaffold for ureteral tissue-engineered repair.