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Evaluation of Biomaterials for Bladder Augmentation using Cystometric Analyses in Various Rodent Models
Published on: August 9, 2012
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Regeneration of Functional Bladder Using Cell-seeded Amnion and P(LA/CL) Scaffolds
Tsunehito Horii1,2, Kazuyoshi Jonin1, Susumu Kageyama1
1Department of Urology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan.
Tissue Engineering. Part A
|September 9, 2022
Summary
This study shows that using cell-seeded amniotic membrane and P(LA/CL) material can regenerate functional bladders in rabbits. This new method offers a promising alternative to traditional gastrointestinal augmentation for bladder reconstruction.
Area of Science:
- Regenerative Medicine
- Biomaterials Science
- Urological Surgery
Background:
- Long-term bladder regeneration remains a challenge, with current augmentation using gastrointestinal segments having limitations.
- Previous attempts with various materials have faced issues with biocompatibility and long-term efficacy.
- Developing functional bladder substitutes without scarring is crucial for urological reconstruction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the long-term efficacy of cell-seeded bioabsorbable materials for regenerating a half-resected bladder in a rabbit model.
- To assess functional and histological outcomes of bladder regeneration using cell-seeded amniotic membrane and P(LA/CL) material.
- To determine if this novel approach can restore bladder function without scarring.
Main Methods:
- Female rabbits underwent half bladder resection, with one group receiving cell-seeded amniotic membrane and P(LA/CL) material (CSM group), and a control group receiving no augmentation.
- Evaluations included X-ray, cystometry, organ bath studies, and histological analysis at 6, 12, and 18 months post-surgery.
- Specific assessments focused on bladder volume, pressure, compliance, contractility, neovascularization, urothelial and smooth muscle formation, and neurofilamentation.
Main Results:
- The cell-seeded material (CSM) group demonstrated peristaltic movements and significantly greater maximum bladder volume, pressure, and compliance compared to controls.
- Organ bath studies showed robust bladder contraction in the CSM group under electrical stimulation, unlike the weak response in controls.
- Histological analysis revealed significantly higher rates of neovascularization, urothelial and smooth muscle regeneration, and neurofilamentation in the CSM group.
Conclusions:
- Cell-seeded amniotic membrane and P(LA/CL) material successfully regenerated functional bladders in rabbits over 18 months.
- This innovative method promotes satisfactory bladder epithelium and smooth muscle function without scar tissue formation.
- The findings suggest a promising alternative for bladder reconstruction, avoiding the use of gastrointestinal segments.

