Immune properties of decellular human tissue-engineering aortic valves conduits

Objective To creat a decellular human tissue-engineering homograft aortic valves conduits and explore the immune properties. Methods The human homograft aortic valves conduits were decellularized by a 3-step detergent-enzymatic extraction method involving the 1% deoxycholic acid (DOA) in combination with Rnase (20 mg/L) and Dnase (200 mg/L).The histology showed that the valves, wall and muscle of the human homograft aortic valves conduits were decellularizeded completely. HLA-DR antigen expression was detected by using immunohistochemical techniques. The valve and wall were transplanted subcutaneously in mice for 8 weeks, the histology 、calcium assay and calcium content were examined. Result the staining of the HLA-DR antigens, the immunogenic potential of the decellular HVA is lower appearantly than the HVA. after 8 weeks embedded in the mouse, the histological signs of the inflammatory reactions to the HVA is more strong than that to the decellular HVA, and the calcification extent is also stronger predominantly. Conclusions HLA-DR antigens expression and the calcification extent caused by the immune response of the decellular HVA is much less than the HVA, In vitro removal of viable cells in HVA may decrease graft failure. and can be used as an ideal valve for patients or as a ideal homograft stent for developing the viable 、 excellent performance and the lowest immunogenic potential tissue engineering homograft valve by Seeding with autologous or major histocompatibility complex-matched donor endothelial cells.