Pericardium-based tissue transplantation is a lifesaving treatment. Commercial glutaraldehyde-treated pericardial tissue exhibits cytotoxicity, which is associated with the accelerated graft failure. Replacement of glutaraldehyde has been suggested to overcome those drawbacks. In this study, we report a toxin-free method that combines tissue stabilization with a terminal sterilization. Our data indicate that the SULEEI procedure, which is part of an issued patent, may be a promising first step toward glutaraldehyde-free pericardium-based tissue transplants. Thus, our results may contribute to improving cardiovascular treatment strategies.
Keywords: SULEEI; glutaraldehyde; ionizing irradiation; low-energy electron irradiation; pericardium; sterilization.