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Tissue Engineering to Repair Diaphragmatic Defect in a Rat Model
G P Liao1, Y Choi1,2, K Vojnits1,2
1Department of Pediatric Surgery, University of Texas, McGovern Medical School at Houston, Houston, TX, USA.
Stem Cells International
|September 21, 2017
Summary
Tissue engineering using decellularized diaphragm scaffolds and human amniotic fluid-derived multipotent stromal cells (hAFMSC) improved diaphragm repair. The combined construct accelerated functional recovery in diaphragmatic hernia models.
Area of Science:
- Regenerative Medicine
- Biomaterials Science
- Stem Cell Biology
Background:
- Tissue engineering offers a promising strategy for repairing damaged tissues and organs.
- Diaphragmatic hernias present a significant clinical challenge requiring effective repair methods.
- Decellularized scaffolds combined with stem cells are being explored for tissue regeneration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of decellularized rat diaphragm scaffolds combined with human amniotic fluid-derived multipotent stromal cells (hAFMSC) for diaphragmatic repair.
- To assess the structural and functional recovery of diaphragmatic defects using a novel scaffold-stem cell construct.
- To determine if hAFMSC-seeded scaffolds enhance tissue ingrowth and regeneration compared to scaffolds alone.
Main Methods:
- Decellularization of rat diaphragm tissue to create biological scaffolds.
- Isolation and expansion of human amniotic fluid-derived multipotent stromal cells (hAFMSC).
- Development of a cell infusion system for embedding hAFMSC into scaffolds.
- Surgical creation of left-sided diaphragmatic defects in rats and implantation of composite tissues (scaffold + hAFMSC) or scaffolds alone (control).
- Assessment of physiological function and muscular-tendon structure post-implantation.
Main Results:
- Composite tissues with hAFMSC demonstrated improved physiological function compared to controls.
- Enhanced muscular-tendon structure was observed in the hAFMSC-treated group.
- The native contralateral hemidiaphragm served as a benchmark for functional comparison.
- Decellularized diaphragm scaffolds provided structural support for tissue regeneration.
Conclusions:
- Decellularized diaphragm scaffolds are a viable biomaterial for diaphragmatic hernia repair.
- Composite grafts combining scaffolds with hAFMSC significantly accelerate functional recovery.
- This tissue engineering approach holds potential for improving outcomes in diaphragmatic hernia treatment.
