Small-Caliber Vascular Grafts Engineered from Decellularized Leaves and Cross-Linked Gelatin

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Fabricating small-diameter vascular grafts with low thrombogenicity and appropriate mechanical properties remains a significant challenge in vascular repair.
• Plant-derived cellulose scaffolds present a promising, non-thrombogenic alternative to traditional materials, capable of promoting cell attachment and suitable blood flow redirection.
• Existing vascular graft technologies face limitations in cost-effectiveness and biocompatibility, necessitating novel approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate small-diameter vascular grafts using decellularized plant leaves (leatherleaf viburnum) combined with cross-linked gelatin.
• To assess the decellularization efficiency, mechanical integrity, and recellularization potential of plant-derived scaffolds.
• To investigate the viability of endothelial cells cultured on these novel vascular graft materials.

Main Methods:

• Terrestrial plant leaves (leatherleaf, spinach, parsley) were decellularized using sodium dodecyl sulfate, egtazic acid, and Tergitol, followed by bleach and Triton X-100 treatment.
• Decellularization efficiency was confirmed via Hematoxylin and Eosin staining and DNA quantification.
• Mechanical properties (tensile and rupture strength) of leatherleaf scaffolds were evaluated, and 3D grafts were fabricated and seeded with rat endothelial cells for viability studies over 14 days.

Main Results:

• Successful decellularization of leatherleaf leaves was achieved across various conditions, with minimal residual DNA.
• Decellularized leatherleaf scaffolds exhibited suitable tensile and rupture strength, maintaining structural integrity for graft fabrication.
• Rat endothelial cells seeded on 2D scaffolds and 3D grafts demonstrated sustained viability for over 14 days, with cell densities comparable to other scaffold types.

Conclusions:

• Decellularized plant leaves, specifically leatherleaf viburnum, represent a cost-effective and readily available source for fabricating small-diameter vascular grafts.
• These plant-derived scaffolds possess appropriate mechanical properties and support endothelial cell recellularization, indicating their potential for vascular repair applications.
• The study highlights the feasibility of using plant biomass to create functional biomaterials for regenerative medicine, addressing the demand for coronary bypass graft alternatives.