In Vitro and In Vivo Testing of Decellularized Lung and Pancreas Matrices as Potential Islet Platforms

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Transplantation Biology

Background:

• Pancreatic islet transplantation for type 1 diabetes is limited by donor shortages and poor graft survival.
• Loss of extracellular matrix support and inadequate vascularization contribute to post-transplantation islet failure.
• Biocompatible scaffolds mimicking the native islet microenvironment are needed to enhance transplantation outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate decellularized (DCL) matrices from porcine lung and pancreas as scaffolds for islet transplantation.
• To optimize decellularization protocols and assess matrix biocompatibility in vitro and in vivo.

Main Methods:

• Porcine lung and pancreatic tissues were decellularized using various detergent-based protocols.
• Matrices were characterized by DNA quantification and histological staining (H&E, Van Gieson).
• In vitro islet viability was assessed using Live/Dead staining; in vivo biocompatibility was evaluated in rat omentum and peritoneum models.

Main Results:

• Optimized protocols yielded DCL matrices with <8% residual DNA, preserving collagen and elastin networks.
• Islets cultured on decellularized lung matrix showed 95% viability at 7 days, significantly higher than controls (60%) and pancreatic matrix (83%).
• Rat omentum implantation sites demonstrated minimal inflammation and fibrosis compared to peritoneum over 8 weeks.

Conclusions:

• Decellularized porcine matrices, particularly from lung tissue, serve as effective scaffolds for islet transplantation.
• These scaffolds enhance islet viability and exhibit good in vivo biocompatibility, especially in the omentum.
• This study represents a significant advancement in developing tissue-engineered therapies for diabetes.