Accelerating neovascularization and kidney tissue formation with a 3D vascular scaffold capturing native vascular structure

Acta Biomater. 2021 Apr 1:124:233-243. doi: 10.1016/j.actbio.2021.01.040. Epub 2021 Jan 30.

Abstract

Establishing an adequate vascularization of three-dimensional (3D) bioengineered tissues remains a critical challenge. We previously fabricated a vascular scaffold using the vascular corrosion casting technique, which provides a similar 3D geometry of native kidney vasculature. In this study, we functionalized the collagen vascular scaffold with a controlled release of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF vascular scaffold) to further promote vascularization. The VEGF vascular scaffold showed improved angiogenic capability in 2-dimensional (2D) and 3D in vitro settings. Implantation of the VEGF vascular scaffold seeded with human renal cells into a rat kidney demonstrated enhanced implant vascularization and reduced apoptosis of implanted human renal cells. Hybrid renal tubule-like structures composed of implanted human and migrated host renal cells were formed. This work highlights the critical role of early vascularization of the geometrically mimetic vascular scaffold using the VEGF incorporated vascular scaffold in reducing apoptosis of implanted cells as well as the formation of renal tissue structures.

Keywords: Kidney; Regeneration; Tissue engineering; Tissue scaffolds.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Collagen
  • Corrosion Casting
  • Kidney
  • Neovascularization, Physiologic
  • Tissue Engineering
  • Tissue Scaffolds*
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A*

Substances

  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A
  • Collagen