Preliminary Resultson the use of Autologous Cell Culture Grafts of Buccal Mucosa in Urethral Repairs

Abstract

We report the procedure in order to obtain and use an MB homologous cell culture. Using autologous material reduced the surgical time and wiped out the risk of rejection; on the other hand, the tissue was so thin and with no adequate scaffold that the healing retraction of the graft was increased, thus compromising the urethral reconstruction. Preliminary results confirm that bio- engineering applied to urethral surgery is far from obtaining adequate tissue with reference to extension, thickness and biological features.

TIMP-1 Induces α-Smooth Muscle Actin in Fibroblasts to Promote Urethral Scar Formation

“…Although TIMP-1 has been recently recognized to play a role in the urethral scar formation, it is mainly thought to inhibit collagenase activity [5][6][7][8]23]. The effect of TIMP-1 on fibroblast transformation, however, has not been studied.…”

“…Thus efficient therapeutic interventions, e.g. inhibition of fibrosis, or decrease of collagen deposition, or increase of collagenolysis, are highly needed [5][6][7][8].…”

“…The molecular basis of urethral stricture involves activation of tissue fibroblasts, their transformation into myofibroblasts, following outgrowth and increased deposition of collagens, and consequent changes in extracellular matrix components [5][6][7][8]. The matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) family members are involved in the breakdown of extracellular matrix during embryonic development, tissue remodeling and disease processes [9][10][11][12][13].…”