A seeding device for tissue engineered tubular structures

Biomaterials. 2006 Oct;27(28):4863-70. doi: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2006.04.042. Epub 2006 Jun 12.

Abstract

One of the challenges in the tissue engineering of tubular tissues and organs is the efficient seeding of porous scaffolds with the desired cell type and density in a short period of time, without affecting cell viability. Though different seeding techniques have been investigated, a fast, reproducible, and efficient bulk seeding method with uniform cellular distribution has yet to be reported. In this paper, a novel seeding device utilizing the synergistic effects of vacuum, centrifugal force and flow has been developed and analyzed. The device allows porous tubular scaffolds to be uniformly bulk seeded as well as luminally surface-seeded with cells. Porous tubular polymer scaffolds were bulk and surface-seeded with cell suspensions, and cell viability and seeding efficiency were subsequently assessed. A rigorous quantitative analysis of shear stresses acting on the cells during the seeding process, and of cell location within the scaffolds following seeding was also performed. Our results showed that the scaffolds were uniformly seeded along the longitudinal and circumferential directions within the tube wall without affecting cell viability or exposing them to excessive shear stresses.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Biocompatible Materials / pharmacology
  • Cattle
  • Cell Adhesion / drug effects
  • Cell Count
  • Cell Survival / drug effects
  • Cells, Cultured
  • Hematopoietic Stem Cells / cytology
  • Hematopoietic Stem Cells / ultrastructure
  • Mice
  • Microscopy, Electron, Scanning
  • Microscopy, Fluorescence
  • Myoblasts / cytology
  • Myoblasts / ultrastructure
  • Polyesters / pharmacology
  • Rats
  • Tissue Engineering / instrumentation*
  • Tissue Engineering / methods*

Substances

  • Biocompatible Materials
  • Polyesters
  • poly(ester urethane)urea