Perfusion-Decellularized Larynx as a Natural 3D Scaffold in a Rabbit Model

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Decellularized tissues serve as scaffolds for organ regeneration.
• The larynx is a complex organ with limited regenerative capacity.
• Developing effective laryngeal scaffolds is crucial for reconstructive surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a perfusion decellularization protocol for creating a 3D whole laryngeal extracellular matrix (ECM) scaffold.
• To evaluate the feasibility and reproducibility of the protocol in a rabbit model.

Main Methods:

• Harvesting rabbit larynges for decellularization.
• Implementing a perfusion-based decellularization protocol.
• Performing histological, molecular, cellular, and scanning electron microscopy analyses.

Main Results:

• The protocol effectively removed cellular components while preserving the ECM and cartilage structure.
• DNA content was significantly reduced in decellularized larynges compared to native ones (e.g., 57.2% reduction in cartilage).
• Histological analysis confirmed the absence of cells and the integrity of the extracellular matrix.

Conclusions:

• The developed perfusion decellularization protocol is feasible and reproducible.
• This protocol successfully generates a 3D whole laryngeal ECM scaffold in a rabbit model.
• The resulting scaffold holds potential for future laryngeal tissue engineering and regeneration applications.