Native aortic valve derived extracellular matrix hydrogel for three dimensional culture analyses with improved biomimetic properties.

Introduction: Calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD) is the most common acquired heart valve disease with complex underlying pathomechanisms that are yet not fully understood. Three-dimensional (3D) cell culture models as opposed to conventional two-dimensional (2D) techniques may reveal new aspects of CAVD and serve as a transitional platform between conventional 2D cell culture and in vivo experiments.

Methods: Here we report on fabrication and characterization of a novel 3D hydrogel derived from cell-free native aortic valves.

Challenges in developing a reseeded, tissue-engineered aortic valve prosthesis.

Objectives: Biological heart valve prostheses are characterized by a limited durability due to the degenerative processes after implantation. Tissue engineering may provide new approaches in the development of optimized valvular grafts. While re-endothelialization of decellularized heart valves has already been successfully implemented, interstitial repopulation still remains an unaccomplished objective although it is essential for valvular functionality and regeneration potential.