Engineering Biological-Based Vascular Grafts Using a Pulsatile Bioreactor

Angela H. Huang; Laura E. Niklason

doi:10.3791/2646

Engineering Biological-Based Vascular Grafts Using a Pulsatile Bioreactor

JoVE Journal
Bioengineering

A subscription to JoVE is required to view this content. Sign in or start your free trial.

JoVE Journal Bioengineering

Engineering Biological-Based Vascular Grafts Using a Pulsatile Bioreactor

Full Text

17,905 Views

11:22 min

June 14, 2011

DOI: 10.3791/2646-v

Angela H. Huang¹, Laura E. Niklason^1,2

¹Department of Biomedical Engineering,Yale University, ²Department of Anesthesiology,Yale University School of Medicine

Overview

This study presents a bioreactor culture system designed to replicate the physiological pulsatile stresses of the cardiovascular system. The aim is to engineer biological vascular grafts suitable for implantation.

Key Study Components

Area of Science

Biotechnology
Cardiovascular Engineering
Tissue Engineering

Background

Vascular grafts are critical for arterial bypass surgeries.
Current grafts often fail due to lack of biological integration.
Bioreactor systems can simulate natural physiological conditions.
Using biodegradable scaffolds can enhance cell growth and integration.

Purpose of Study

To develop a method for creating small-diameter vascular grafts.
To utilize a pulsatile bioreactor for cell growth and maturation.
To assess the mechanical and biochemical properties of the engineered grafts.

Methods Used

Preparation of biodegradable PGA mesh scaffolds.
Seeding of smooth muscle cells onto the scaffolds.
Assembly of scaffolds in a bioreactor chamber.
Application of pulsatile flow to promote cell growth.

Main Results

Cells grew into functional vascular structures within the bioreactor.
The engineered grafts passed immunochemical and biochemical tests.
Mechanical properties of the grafts were evaluated successfully.
This technique shows promise for treating coronary artery disease.

Conclusions

The pulsatile bioreactor system effectively supports vascular graft engineering.
Biodegradable scaffolds can enhance graft integration and functionality.
This approach may lead to improved outcomes in arterial bypass surgeries.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main goal of this study?

The main goal is to engineer biological vascular grafts using a pulsatile bioreactor system.

How are the scaffolds prepared?

Scaffolds are made from biodegradable PGA mesh where cells will grow.

What types of cells are used in the bioreactor?

Smooth muscle cells are seeded onto the scaffolds.

What tests do the grafts undergo?

The grafts pass immunochemical, biochemical, and mechanical tests.

What are the implications of this research?

This technique may improve the regeneration of small-diameter vascular grafts for arterial bypass.

Our group has developed a bioreactor culture system that mimics the physiological pulsatile stresses of the cardiovascular system to regenerate implantable small-diameter vascular grafts.

The overall goal of this procedure is to engineer biological based vascular grafts using a pulsatile bioreactor system. This is accomplished by preparing a biodegradable scaffold from PGA mesh where the cells will grow row and assembling them in a bioreactor chamber. The scaffolds are then seated with smooth muscle cells and a lid with air and feeding tube seals the bioreactor chamber.

The bioreactor is then connected to a flow system to provide pulsatile flow to vessels in the bioreactor. In the reactor, the cells grow into vessels that pass immunochemical, biochemical and mechanical tests. The implications of this technique extend towards therapy of coronary artery disease because this technique is a promi promising approach to regenerate implantable small diameter vascular grafts for arterial bypass.

View the full transcript and gain access to thousands of scientific videos