Decellularized Bovine Aorta as a Promising 3D Elastin Scaffold for Vascular Tissue Engineering Applications

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate the suitability of using aorta elastin scaffold, in combination with human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hAd-MSCs), as an approach for cardiovascular tissue engineering. Materials & Methods: Human adipose-derived MSCs were seeded on elastin samples of decellularized bovine aorta. The samples were cultured in vitro to investigate the inductive effects of this scaffold on the cells. The results were evaluated using histological, and immunohistochemical methods, as well as MTT assay, DNA content, reverse transcription-PCR and scanning electron microscopy. Results: Histological staining and DNA content confirmed the efficacy of decellularization procedure (82% DNA removal). MTT assay showed the construct’s ability to support cell viability and proliferation. Cell differentiation was confirmed by reverse transcription-PCR and positive immunohistochemistry for alfa smooth muscle actin and von Willebrand. Conclusion: The prepared aortic elastin samples act as a potential scaffold, in combination with MSCs, for applications in cardiovascular tissue engineering. Further experiments in animal models are required to confirm this.

Evaluating the Biocompatibility of Decellularized Pancreas and Its Histological Features as a Support Structure for Adipose Mesenchymal Stem Cell Culture

“…To completely destroy all cellular components, some decellularization methods are used, such as melting and freezing cycles, which are known as physical methods and mechanical stimulation. However, this method does not guarantee the preservation of the ECM microstructure, which is essential for tissue engineering (9,12). Extracellular matrix proteins support angiogenesis in addition to cell transport, proliferation, and differentiation (9).…”

“…However, this method does not guarantee the preservation of the ECM microstructure, which is essential for tissue engineering (9,12). Extracellular matrix proteins support angiogenesis in addition to cell transport, proliferation, and differentiation (9). Extracellular matrix components, as well as 3D-and microstructure and physical characteristics, were retained in our approach for complete organ decellularization.…”

“…In this regard, in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, to help with problems caused by pancreas transplantation, MSCs and their growth in decellularized scaffolds of pancreatic tissue are used to regenerate the desired tissue. Therefore, the best alternative to pancreas transplantation for clinical use is the combination of pancreatic decellularization scaffold and stem cells (9,11).…”

“…Decellularization is a process used in tissue engineering to separate the extracellular matrix (ECM) from the cells in a tissue. This process can lead to the creation of natural scaffolds that are used in the construction of artificial organs and tissue repair (9). The extracellular matrix is a heterogeneous connective network in native tissues and organs that functions in vivo to provide the structural support, mechanical stability, and biochemical signals necessary for tissue morphogenesis and homeostasis.…”

Enhancing Stem Cell-Based Therapeutic Potential by Combining Various Bioengineering Technologies

“…Finally, a novel vascular-like tissue in vivo was detected by analyzing the ECM collagen and elastin within implanted vascular scaffolds ( Krawiec et al, 2017 ). Decellularized aorta elastin scaffold with biodegradability and cytocompatibility in combination with human AD-MSCs was also developed by Kazemi et al (2021) .…”