Esophagus decellularization protocols in macaca mulatta model

Abstract

Decellularization is used in biomedical engineering to isolate the extracellular matrix (ECM) from its inhabiting cells, preserving the ECM of the scaffold, which could be used for biological non-immunogenic and non- Toxic scaffolds obtainment for creation of full-fledged organs and tissues. Taking into account the importance of transferring results into clinic, the model of the non-human primates is the most suitable model for carrying out preclinical research. We have developed two protocols of Macaca mulatta esophagus decellularization by the modified detergent and enzymatic method differing in samples storage conditions, preparation for decellularization process, and also composition and duration of decellularizing agents' exposure. The obtained scaffolds maintain anatomical and morphological properties of a native esophagus as well as components of an ECM. The DNA-quantity substantially decreases when using detergents and enzymes. At the same time it is shown that organs' freezing at 30 °C requires protocol modification for lengthening of transportation and storage time and the subsequent thawing for decellularization.