Bioengineered Scaffolds as Substitutes for Grafts for Urethra Reconstruction

Abstract

Urethral defects originating from congenital malformations, trauma, inflammation or carcinoma still pose a great challenge to modern urology. Recent therapies have failed many times and have not provided the expected results. This negatively affects patients’ quality of life. By combining cells, bioactive molecules, and biomaterials, tissue engineering can provide promising treatment options. This review focused on scaffold systems for urethra reconstruction. We also discussed different technologies, such as electrospinning and 3D bioprinting which provide great possibility for the preparation of a hollow structure with well-defined architecture.

Evaluation of Selected Properties of Sodium Alginate-Based Hydrogel Material—Mechanical Strength, μDIC Analysis and Degradation

“…In the case of men, the urethra also has the function of carrying out semen. Due to the fact that the male urethra is longer and is approximately 15–20 cm, it is exposed to diseases much more frequently [ 9 , 10 , 11 ].…”

Male subfertility and oxidative stress

“…These procedures are commonly applied in clinics, however do not satisfy needs of patients. Therefore, researchers are looking for a way to obtain functional corporal tissues, testicles or prostate using various materials and cell types [ 143 , 144 ]. The link between oxidative stress and implant failure has already been reported in the process of reconstruction of various organs [ [145] , [146] , [147] ].…”

Stem Cells in Urethral Replacement

“…USCs have been seeded on biomaterials such as small intestinal submucosa, bladder submucosa or bacterial cellulose polymer [1,4,6]. By this technique, urethra like structures with urothelial and smooth muscle layers has been obtained in vitro.…”

“…In urology, the progress has not been smooth and the earlier optimism regarding the use of stem cells in stress incontinence has not been sustained [1]. However, their use for urethral replacement in cell seeded scaffolds has shown steady progress [6].…”

“…The mechanism of multiplication and differentiation of stem cells have not been clearly understood and is a factor responsible for the relatively slow progress of stem cell application in clinical practice. Mechanisms like cell contact, paracrine signaling, neovascularization, secretion of growth factors and cytokines have been postulated in stem cell multiplication [1,4,6].…”