Extracellular Matrix (ECM) Multilayer Membrane as a Sustained Releasing Growth Factor Delivery System for rhTGF-β3 in Articular Cartilage Repair.

Recombinant human transforming growth factor beta-3 (rhTGF-β3) is a key regulator of chondrogenesis in stem cells and cartilage formation. We have developed a novel drug delivery system that continuously releases rhTGF-β3 using a multilayered extracellular matrix (ECM) membrane. We hypothesize that the sustained release of rhTGF-β3 could activate stem cells and result in enhanced repair of cartilage defects.

Preparation of Extracellular Matrix Developed Using Porcine Articular Cartilage and Feasibility Study of Porcine Articular Cartilage as an Anti-Adhesive Film.

In this study, we examined whether porcine articular cartilage (PAC) is a suitable and effective anti-adhesive material. PAC, which contained no non-collagenous tissue components, was collected by mechanical manipulation and decellularization of porcine knee cartilage. The PAC film for use as an anti-adhesive barrier was easily shaped into various sizes using homemade silicone molds.

Tissue-engineered tracheal reconstruction using mesenchymal stem cells seeded on a porcine cartilage powder scaffold.

Tissue engineering using a biocompatible scaffold with various cells might be a solution for tracheal reconstruction. We investigated the plausibility of using mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) seeded on a porcine cartilage powder (PCP) scaffold for tracheal defect repair. PCP made with minced and decellularized porcine articular cartilage was molded into a 5 × 12 mm (height × diameter) scaffold.

Tissue-engineered tracheal reconstruction using chondrocyte seeded on a porcine cartilage-derived substance scaffold.

Objectives: Tracheal reconstruction with tissue-engineering technique has come into the limelight in the realm of head and neck surgery. We intended to evaluate the plausibility of allogenic chondrocytes cultured with porcine cartilage-derived substance (PCS) scaffold for partial tracheal defect reconstruction.

Methods: Powder made from crushed and decellularized porcine articular cartilage was formed as 5 mm × 12 mm (height × diameter) scaffold.