Independent, Controllable Stretch-Perfusion Bioreactor Chambers to Functionalize Cell-Seeded Decellularized Tendons

Area of Science:

• Regenerative Medicine
• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering

Background:

• Tissue-engineered decellularized matrices offer potential for clinical repair of tendon ruptures and defects.
• Developing functionalized cell-seeded matrices requires advanced culture systems that mimic physiological conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a custom-made automated bioreactor, the oscillating stretch-perfusion bioreactor (OSPB).
• To functionalize cell-seeded decellularized tendons by combining bidirectional perfusion and uniaxial strain.
• To assess the impact of the OSPB on cell viability, distribution, and extracellular matrix production.

Main Methods:

• Decellularized tendon matrices were seeded with mesenchymal stem cells.
• Constructs were cultured in the OSPB with bidirectional perfusion and cyclic uniaxial strain (15-30-60 min on-off, twice daily for 7 days).
• In vitro analyses, including histology, were performed to evaluate cell distribution and collagen matrix formation.

Main Results:

• Viable mesenchymal stem cells were homogenously distributed within the cell-seeded decellularized tendon constructs.
• Cyclic loading in the OSPB significantly enhanced the production and organization of newly formed collagen matrix compared to static cultures.
• Histological findings demonstrated improved coherency and local alignment of collagen deposition within the constructs.

Conclusions:

• The developed oscillating stretch-perfusion bioreactor (OSPB) is a cost-effective, multi-chamber system for parallel processing of customized tendon constructs.
• The OSPB effectively functionalizes cell-seeded decellularized tendons, promoting superior collagen matrix formation.
• This technology holds promise for enhancing surgical repair of large tendon defects through improved tissue-engineered grafts.