A perfusion decellularization heart model - an interesting tool for cell-matrix interaction studies

Abstract

Objective. In this paper, we present a technique for whole human, pig, or rat heart decellularization in order to obtain a tool for cell-matrix interaction studies and to obtain the extracellular matrix scaffold with applications to the study of cardiac connective tissue architecture for tissue bioengineering. Material and methods. In order to achieve tissue decellularization we present two separate protocols, the first for large animal hearts (e.g., pig hearts) and human hearts, the second for smaller hearts (e.g., rat hearts). We have performed the cardiac decellularization technique on 20 pig hearts, 5 human hearts, and 20 rat hearts. Results. The decellularization technique on the heart was assessed through histological examination. Conclusion. Although the decellularization technique on the heart is currently under development, this process affords the possibility of developing research in the fields of biomaterials, tissue engineering, and cardiac cell cultures.

Keywords

• decellularization technique
• tissue engineering
• cardiac cell cultures.