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Updated: Mar 31, 2026
Procedure for Decellularization of Porcine Heart by Retrograde Coronary Perfusion
Published on: December 6, 2012
New frontiers in porcine atrioventricular node decellularization: preserving extracellular matrix architecture for
Alice Tomas1,2, Assunta Fabozzo3, Domenico Ventrella4
1Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Science and Public Health, University of Padova, Padua, Italy.
Introduction:
Cardiac implantable electronic devices manage arrhythmias but are limited by mechanical failures, infection risks, and poor long-term biocompatibility. Developing a biological alternative that restores intrinsic pacemaking remains a key clinical challenge.
Methods:
We developed cardiac scaffolds from porcine atrioventricular nodes using an optimized Tergitol-based decellularization protocol. Morphological, ultrastructural, proteomic, and mechanical analyses were conducted to assess ECM integrity and preservation of native architecture.
Results:
The decellularization process effectively removed cellular and nuclear components while preserving three-dimensional structure, collagen content, and overall ECM organization. Analyses confirmed that key features essential for pacemaker tissue support were maintained.
Discussion:
Our findings demonstrate that the scaffold retains native characteristics suitable for biologically inspired pacemaker applications. This work provides a foundation for ECM-derived hydrogel development, cytocompatibility testing, and integration with cardiomyocytes in next-generation tissue-engineered cardiac scaffolds.
