Biocompatible and Safe Decellularized Spinach With Antibacterial and Wound Healing Activity

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Plant-based Scaffolds

Background:

• Acellular vascularized constructs are crucial for tissue engineering.
• Chemical decellularization using harsh detergents is common but can damage tissue.
• Plant tissues offer a potential source for biocompatible scaffolds.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop novel, low-concentration detergent-based decellularization techniques for spinach leaves.
• To create an acellular plant matrix for tissue engineering applications.
• To evaluate the biocompatibility, wound healing potential, and antibacterial activity of the derived scaffolds.

Main Methods:

• Spinach leaves were decellularized using Tween-20, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), and sodium hypochlorite (SH) at low concentrations.
• DNA and protein content were quantified.
• Decellularization efficacy was assessed via hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining.
• Biocompatibility and fibroblast wound healing were evaluated using MTT and Scratch assays.
• Antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus was tested.

Main Results:

• Tween-20 at 1% concentration, at 21°C and 37°C, yielded scaffolds with optimal shape, vascularization, and biocompatibility.
• These scaffolds enhanced cell proliferation and fibroblast wound healing.
• All tested scaffold types demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, achieving a 100% kill rate within 4 hours.

Conclusions:

• Novel, mild decellularization methods using Tween-20 are effective for creating spinach-derived acellular scaffolds.
• These plant-based scaffolds exhibit excellent biocompatibility and potent antibacterial properties.
• The developed scaffolds are suitable for tissue engineering applications and possess potential for pharmacological use in wound repair.