Innovative Herbal-Based Decellularization of Pericardium for Advanced Polymeric Skin Substitutes

Tissue engineering has opened new horizons with the introduction of biological scaffolds obtained by decellularization techniques as novel tools in regenerative medicine. Chemical agents such as SDS, although effective in cell removal, can cause cytotoxicity. Herbal agents can be a safer and more biocompatible alternative. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of Acanthophelium extract (ACP) as a herbal agent in decellularization of sheep pericardium and compare it with SDS for use in skin engineering.

Pericardial tissues were decellularized with different concentrations of ACP (5, 7.5% and 10%) and SDS (1%), as well as the combination of ACP + SDS. Tissue staining, biocompatibility (MTT), hemolysis, blood clotting index (BCI), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), ATR-FTIR spectroscopy, mechanical testing, contact angle, and antibacterial activity were performed.

Complete cell removal was observed in the ACP + SDS combination groups, while the ECM structure was preserved. Biocompatibility was more than 90% in all groups. ACP-based scaffolds had less hemolysis, a more favorable coagulation index, preserved protein structure, higher porosity, and higher hydrophilicity. Although the mechanical properties were slightly reduced, they remained acceptable. The 10% ACP + 0.1% SDS group reported the highest antibacterial effect.

ACP extract, as a plant agent in pericardial decellularization, has an effective and biocompatible function, and in combination with a small amount of SDS, it can provide a balanced scaffold with desirable properties for skin engineering.