An efficient method for decellularization of the rat liver

Background/PurposeUsing gradient ionic detergent, we optimized the preparation procedure for the decellularized liver biologic scaffold, and analyzed its immunogenicity and biocompatibility.MethodsEDTA, hypotonic alkaline solution, Triton X-100, and gradient sodium dodecyl sulfate (1%, 0.5%, and 0.1%, respectively) were prepared for continuous perfusion through the hepatic vascular system. The decellularization of the liver tissue was performed with the optimized reagent buffer and washing protocol. In addition, the preservation of the original extracellular matrix was observed. To analyze its biocompatibility, the scaffold was embedded in a heterologous animal and the inflammation features, including the surrounding cell infiltration and changes of the scaffold architecture, were detected. The cell-attachment ability was also validated by the perfusion culture of HepG2 cells with the scaffold.ResultsBy using gradient ionic detergent, we completed the decellularization process in approximately 5 h, which was shorter than >10 hours in previous experiments (p