Does platelet lysate switch cryopreserved human tissues on?
Platelet lysate is a derivative of platelet-rich plasma that is used as supplement for in vitro cell culture media. A variety of protocols for its preparation have been described. However, its potential use in the clinical setting has been poorly studied. In the present work, the effect of several protocols on cell proliferation has been comparatively analyzed. Additionally, the effect of exposing bone and vascular tissues to different concentrations of platelet lysate has also been analyzed. Human fibroblast-like cells were used to test preparation protocols. Thawed skull and artery fragments were incubated with platelet lysate and seeded as explants in culture plates. Cell growth was evaluated quantitatively in the first assay (cell count) and qualitatively in the second (presence of growing cell colonies). The presence of leukocytes in the raw material to obtain the platelet lysate was correlated with higher cell proliferation. In all cultures from arteries and 71.4% of those from bones, the presence of viable cells was detected. No statistically significant differences that correlated with the percentage of platelet lysate used during the post-thaw incubation were observed. The main findings of this study revealed that: there is a contribution of bioactive substances for cell growth by lymphocytes, incubation with platelet lysate had no significant activating effect on cells in thawed tissues, arteries stored in liquid nitrogen retained cell viability for long periods (over 5 years), and cell viability in bones stored at - 80 °C decreased after 3 months.
The impact of lyophilization media on fertilization potential of buffalo spermatozoa
The current investigation aimed to exhibit the impact of lyophilization media of frozen spermatozoa on the fertility potential of buffalo spermatozoa as indicated by comet assay and ICSI. Semen specimens were centrifugated at 700 × g for 20 min using percoll gradient (45-90%), double washed in Tyrode's albumen lactate pyruvate (TALP) and diluted in the lyophilization media (media 1, 2, 3 and 4), correspondingly. Cooling of the diluted sperm cells in vapor of liquid nitrogen. Frozen samples were instantly put into the lyophilizer (-55 °C, pressure 0.001 Mbar). After 24 h of lyophilization, the semen specimens were kept for three months at 4 °C. Frozen-dried semen was re-hydrated at room temperature in of milli-Q water(100 µL). Comet assay results of the frozen-dried semen exhibited that the TCM medium exhibited the lowest % of DNA deterioration [6.17] and the superior % of embryonic developmental rate,while Tris-EDTA medium exhibited the highest % of DNA deterioration [13.09]. The lowest successful % of ICSI exhibited upon using EGTA and EDTA media. It could be concluded that ICSI of frozen-dried spermatozoa upon using TCM medium provides the highest % of embryonic expansion. Also, Tris-EGTA and Tris-EDTA media exhibited the lowest successful percent.
Potential of human amniotic membrane application for articular cartilage regeneration: a review
Regeneration of articular cartilage disorders is one of the critical challenges in musculoskeletal medicine. Tissue engineering could represent a therapeutic option to support cartilage regeneration. Natural and biological materials are appropriate for fabricating tissue engineering scaffolds because of their similarity to natural tissues. The properties of amniotic membranes, including low immunogenicity, anti-inflammatory role, cell loading capability, expression of various growth factors, and chondroprotective effect, make them an interesting option for cartilage regeneration. This review studied the structure of articular cartilage and potential applications of the human amniotic membrane (AM) for articular cartilage regeneration. In addition, processing and decellularization methods of AM and the most common forms of amniotic membrane used in cartilage regeneration, including sheet, injectable form, and 3D forms, were studied. This review highlights the benefits of amniotic membrane applications in cartilage regeneration and clinical trial studies.
Comprehensive evaluation of the clinical feasibility of using perinatal medical waste as a source for fetal mesenchymal stem cell banking under good manufacturing practice conditions
This study aimed to determine the most feasible perinatal tissue for Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP)-compliant banking of mesenchymal stromal-like cells (MSC-like cells). It was hypothesized that amniotic fluid collected during cesarean section would yield lower contamination rates and greater processing feasibility compared with other perinatal tissues. This prospective observational study was conducted at a tertiary university hospital and included 32 healthy term pregnancies. A total of 160 perinatal samples-amniotic fluid, amniotic membrane, umbilical cord, intact placenta, and placental fragments-were obtained. A validated feasibility scoring system evaluated material acquisition difficulty, transportation logistics, storage duration, and processing complexity. Samples were stratified by delivery mode (cesarean section vs. vaginal delivery) and collection timing (within vs. outside laboratory working hours). Stem cell isolation, sterility assessment, and immunophenotypic characterization were performed. Due to the absence of trilineage differentiation assays and maternal-fetal origin confirmation, the isolated cells were defined as MSC-like cells rather than definitive fetal MSCs. Statistical analyses were performed using chi-square and Mann-Whitney U tests (p < 0.05). Samples collected via cesarean section demonstrated significantly lower rates of blood contamination (25.8% vs. 60.0%, p < 0.001) and bacterial contamination (25.8% vs. 60.0%, p < 0.001) compared with those from vaginal deliveries. Amniotic fluid achieved the highest acquisition score, required no enzymatic digestion, and had the shortest median isolation time (45 min). It exhibited the lowest overall contamination and was the most suitable source for GMP-oriented MSC-like cell processing. Conversely, intact placenta and placental fragments showed the highest contamination rates, longest enzymatic processing times, and greatest logistical burden. While collection timing affected storage duration and workflow continuity, tissue type and delivery mode were the dominant determinants of feasibility. Cesarean section-derived amniotic fluid appears to be the most practical, sterile, and processing-efficient perinatal source for GMP-adapted MSC-like cell banking within the evaluated parameters. These results support its prioritization in the development of standardized collection and processing protocols for perinatal stromal cell applications in regenerative medicine.
Tissue engineering as a tool in a novel approach to the comprehensive treatment and management of a deeply and extensively burned patient: case report
Deep and extensive thermal burns with concurrent inhalation injuries can be associated with a high mortality rate, especially among elderly patients. Injuries of this type require treatment in highly. specialized centers. Early excision and autografting are the standard of care for extensive, deep burns. To achieve a functionally and aesthetically satisfactory burn scar, allogeneic acellular dermal matrices (ADMs) can be used as co-grafts alongside autologous split-thickness skin grafts (STSGs). Additionally, the application of in vitro-cultured autologous keratinocytes and fibroblasts has been shown to accelerate burn wound healing. Allogeneic amnion transplantation can also be performed to promote healing at donor sites. This paper presents a case report of a 65 year-old patient with thermal burns covering 26% total body surface area (TBSA) with third-degree burns affecting the thorax, abdomen, back, right shoulder, right elbow, and right thigh, as well as airway involvement. The patient underwent multistage surgical treatment, including deep excision of necrotic tissues. The wound was treated using a combination of ADM, free STSG, in vitro-cultured skin cells, and local negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT). Allogeneic amnion grafts were applied to the donor sites, which were used multiple times after healing. Healing progress was monitored using laser speckle contrast analysis (LASCA). Additionally, scar viscoelasticity, transepidermal water loss, melanin content, epidermal thickness, and temperature were examined post-healing. Selected skin parameters were also assessed using high-frequency ultrasound. The patient was discharged on day 77, having spent 41 days in the surgical ward and 36 days in the rehabilitation ward, with fully healed wounds. It is important to note that rehabilitation began on the first day of hospitalization. Follow-up visits documented gradual improvement in the evaluated scar parameters.
Effects of super-activated platelet lysate and bone mesenchymal stem cells on bone regeneration, and expression of bone metabolism-related factors in rats
The present study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of super-activated platelet lysate (sPL), as well as sPL in combination with bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) in treating bone defects in rats. Ninety rats with induced radial defects were divided into three groups: sPL/BMSCs, sPL, and control. The healing process was evaluated using X-rays, Lane Sandhu scores, HE staining, RT-qPCR, immunohistochemistry, and ELISA. Both sPL and sPL/BMSCs facilitate bone repair. Compared to the other groups, the sPL/BMSCs group showed higher OCN, OSX, and RUNX2 gene expression until 10 weeks after treatment ALP levels in the sPL group increased until week 6 and remained elevated until week 10, with the sPL/BMSCs group showing significantly higher peak ALP levels. IGF-1, TGF-β, and VEGF levels in both treatment groups were higher than in the control group. Our study demonstrated that both sPL and sPL/BMSC transplants at the bone defect site can promote bone healing and modulate bone metabolism-related factors. However, the effect of sPL/BMSCs was superior to sPL alone.
Deceased organ and tissue donor with burn injury
The gap between the clinical demand for transplantable organs/tissues and the limited availability of deceased donors motivates the search for alternative donor types. This growing need has prompted exploration into non-traditional donor populations, including those who have died due to circulatory causes, elderly individuals, and donors previously excluded from consideration, such as those with extensive burns. Burned deceased donors are often perceived as unsuitable due to the detrimental effects of burn injury on multiple organ systems, including the phenomenon known as "burn disease." This condition, characterized by systemic inflammatory responses, metabolic derangements, and sepsis risk, can potentially compromise organ viability.However, proper assessment and management of these donors, including rigorous evaluation of organ function, the extent of burn injury, and potential infection, can enable successful multi-organ and multi-tissue donation. Several reports suggest that, under appropriate clinical and logistical circumstances, organs such as the kidneys, liver, heart, and lungs, as well as various tissues, can be procured from burned donors.Nonetheless, expanding research in this area is essential to establish the guidelines for safe utilization of burn deceased donor population.
Three-dimensionally decellularized human amniotic membrane scaffold: structure, processing, and biological properties
Tissue engineering (TE) combines cells, biomaterials, and bioactive molecules to create functional tissue constructs aimed at restoring tissue function and improving patient outcomes. The human amniotic membrane (HAM) is a widely studied biological scaffold for various biomedical applications. Decellularization of HAM (dHAM) is necessary to reduce graft rejection but depletes stem cells and growth factors, potentially limiting regenerative potential. This study investigates the recellularization of dHAM with adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AdMSCs) to enhance its bioactivity using a novel 3D seeding technique. Decellularized HAM (dHAM) was recellularized with AdMSCs employing a novel 3D seeding method to achieve uniform cell distribution within the scaffold. The viability, differentiation potential, and morphology of AdMSCs were assessed in both 2D and 3D culture systems. Flow cytometry was used to evaluate the differentiation capacity of AdMSCs into osteogenic, chondrogenic, and adipogenic lineages. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) was utilized to analyze cell morphology and penetration depth within the scaffold. AdMSC viability was comparable between 2 and 3D cultures, indicating that dHAM scaffolds effectively support cell survival regardless of the culture technique. The composition and properties of dHAM preserved cell functions in both culture systems. Flow cytometry confirmed the multilineage differentiation potential of AdMSCs. FESEM imaging revealed AdMSCs with extending filopodia on the scaffold surface and cell penetration up to 17.68 µm into the dHAM matrix. The successful 3D recellularization of dHAM with AdMSCs demonstrates its potential as a biological scaffold for stem cell delivery. This approach holds promise for tissue repair and wound healing applications, enhancing the regenerative efficacy of dHAM-based constructs.
In vitro evaluation of the nanofibers developed for peripheral nerve regeneration
In tissue engineering, natural and synthetic nanofibers that can regenerate body damage have been successfully used in the repair of many lesion types, including peripheral neural lesions, in recent years. So, we developed three different nanofibers that we think can regenerate peripheral nerve damage. Three different nanofibers based on biodegradable poly-ε-caprolactone (PCL); Pure PCL (PCL) nanofiber, 70% PCL and 30% bioactive glass (PCL/BG) hybrid nanofiber, and 0.1% vitamin B12 added (PCL/BG)-B12 hybrid nanofiber were produced by electrospinning. Sol-gel method was used in the synthesis of biomaterials containing bioactive glass. The nanofibers were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). Cell viability assays were performed with healthy L929 fibroblast cells and PC12 cells to evaluate the biocompatibility of nanofibers. Neuronal differentiation of PC12 cells were stimulated by nerve growth factor (NGF). To assess the differentiation levels of PC12 cells, the length of neurites and number of outgrowing neurites per cell was evaluated morphologically, and NGF production levels of the cells were determined by ELISA. The results suggest that these biocompatible nanofibers stimulated PC12 cell survival and neuronal differentiation. Among these scaffolds, PCL/BG-B12 nanofibers strikingly triggered NGF production of PC12 cells as a hallmark of neuroregeneration. Thus, the nanofibers are capable of neuroprotective properties due to their safe, supporting proliferation, and NGF-releasing capacity. Additionally, it could be suggested that the PCL/BG nanofiber and vitamin B12 have the potential to be used in further studies for neurodegenerative diseases.
Optimizing a feasible protocol for acellular nerve allografts: An experimental study
Peripheral nerve injuries often require surgical intervention when end-to-end coaptation is not feasible, with autologous nerve grafts being the current gold standard. However, limitations such as donor-site defects drive the search for alternative methods. This study explores the efficacy of acellular nerve allografts obtained through a feasible protocol as a potential off-the-shelf substitute for autografting in a 14-mm rat sciatic nerve defect. Thirty-two female Wistar rats were divided into four groups: autograft, lyophilized acellular allograft, fresh acellular allograft and silicone tube. Functional assessments and histological examinations were performed at 14 and 20 weeks post-surgery, respectively. Results showed comparable axonal regeneration between acellular nerve allografts and autografts. Histomorphometric analysis revealed no significant differences in axonal characteristics between groups. Muscle histomorphometry indicated superior recovery in animals treated with fresh acellular allografts, who exhibited the least muscle atrophy and larger muscle fiber diameter compared to lyophilized processed allografts and autografts. Functional assessments revealed no significant intergroup differences. Processed acellular allografts promote axonal regeneration similar to autografts in a 14-mm rat sciatic nerve defect. Fresh acellular allografts achieve better muscle reinnervation in the medial gastrocnemius muscle. However, axonal regeneration does not consistently correlate with functional or histomorphological outcomes of the hind leg muscle. The successful decellularization protocol and lack of immune rejection pave the way for adapting it to human nerve grafts. These could revolutionize clinical practice in our country, becoming an example of leveraging existing resources and replacing collagen conduits and autografts for treating certain injuries.
Comparing the efficacy of two antibiotic cocktails in decontamination of cardiovascular tissues
Cardiovascular allografts are essential for patients with severe cardiovascular diseases. Yet, microbial contamination of the grafts poses a life-threatening risk to recipients. Tissue banks utilize various decontamination methods during cardiovascular tissue processing, often involving antibiotic solutions. This study compares the efficacy of an in-house prepared antibiotic cocktail (tissue bank cocktail) and a commercially available solution (BASE.128) in decontaminating cardiovascular tissues. For this study, the efficacy of the two antibiotic cocktails was compared through quantitative comparisons against challenge microorganisms, and retrospective analysis of routine sterility tests. Both solutions demonstrated comparable decontamination efficiency against challenge strains, achieving significant reductions in bacterial load. However, retrospective sterility tests revealed that while both antibiotic solutions were highly effective in decontaminating cardiovascular allografts, the use of BASE.128 followed a tenfold increase in contamination rates compared to the tissue bank cocktail, primarily due to a slow-growing non-tuberculous mycobacteria strain. These findings highlight the importance of tailored decontamination protocols that consider prevalent microbial contaminants while preserving tissue quality.
Processing of fresh frozen allograft and evaluation of its effect with platelet-rich fibrin membrane in the treatment of periodontal osseous defects
Bone grafts and its substitutes are commonly used in periodontics to enhance bone formation and periodontal regeneration. Allografts, derived from human donors, support new bone growth and are biocompatible, with reduced disease transmission risk due to rigorous screening. Combining bone grafts with growth factors can further improve treatment outcomes. Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) releases growth factors that enhance regeneration. This study evaluates the effectiveness of combining processed fresh frozen bone allograft (FFBA) with PRF mambrane for treating periodontal bone defects. The FFBA was prepared from bone chips collected from systemically healthy patients in an aseptic environment during orthopedic surgeries, which was then processed and tested for microbiological and cytotoxicity concerns using Human Osteosarcoma (MG-63) and Normal Mouse Fibroblast (L929) cell lines. PRF was prepared by centrifuging blood collected from patients at 2300 rpm for 12 min. A case study comprising of ten patients with chronic periodontitis was conducted, Clinical and radiographic measurements, including plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), probing depth (PD), and bone defect fill percentage using radiographs were recorded at baseline and nine months. Descriptive statistics (Mean ± SD), a 5% significance level, and 90% confidence intervals were used. Paired t-tests showed significant improvements in GI (p < 0.001), PI (p < 0.001), PPD (p < 0.001), and Bone defect fill (p < 0.001). The study concluded that using processed fresh frozen bone allograft with PRF positively affects the treatment of periodontal osseous defects.
Synthesis and characterization of silver nanoparticle-loaded carboxymethylcellulose hydrogels: in vitro and in vivo evaluation of wound healing and antibacterial properties
The current research was conducted to assess wound healing activity and antibacterial properties of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) hydrogels loaded with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) against excisional wounds (15 × 15 mm) infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus in a rat model.CMC/AgNPs hydrogels were synthesized using varying concentrations of AgNPs and subsequently lyophilized. A comprehensive range of in vitro tests were conducted, including nanoparticle characterization, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) morphology study, water uptake (WUE) study, blood uptake capacity study (BUC), weight loss study (WLA), pH, hemolysis percentage (HP), blood coagulation index (BCI), antibacterial activity (minimum inhibitory concentration [MIC] and minimum bactericidal concentration [MBC]), and cell viability through the MTT assay. In vivo wound healing studies were conducted using infected excisional wound models in rats. SEM confirmed a porous structure with a mean pore size ranging from 68 to 152 μm. The hydrogels exhibited dosage-dependent swelling and sustained physiological pH (7.4-7.6) for a period of time. The 125 μg/mL AgNPs formulation showed a BUC of 97.68% in 22 h. Hemocompatibility assay showed minimal hemolysis and acceptable coagulation indices for all concentrations of AgNPs. MIC and MBC against both strains of bacteria were found to be 250 μg/mL and 500 μg/mL, respectively. CMC/AgNPs hydrogel with the concentration of 250 μg/mL showed the optimal cell viability and the optimal in vivo wound healing result. The findings indicate that AgNPs-loaded CMC hydrogels possess favorable physicochemical, biocompatible, and antimicrobial properties, suggesting their potential as a wound dressing for managing infected wounds and supporting the wound healing process.
Is it safe to use bone tissue for transplants stored for more than five years in a human tissue bank?
Human Tissue Banks (BTH) must validate the storage of collected/processed tissues ensuring physical integrity, sterility, and microbial protection for up to 5 years. (1) Is it safe to use bone tissue for transplants collected by a BTH after 5 years of storage? (2) Do the packaging of stored tissues present physical integrity, sterility, and microbial protection after 5 years? (3) What are the morphological results of bone tissues after 5 years?. 20 femoral heads were used with a storage time of between 9 and 10 years at -80 °C. From each femoral head, the following were carried out: microbiological tests for aerobic and anaerobic bacteria and fungi, collecting 3 fragments of bone tissue, 3 Stuart swabs from the inner surface of the packaging, and a sample of 0.9% SF for Bioburden examination; tissue histology; the quantitative and qualitative mechanical resistance test and pyrogenicity/cytotoxicity test were used on the packaging, pre and post storage. No bone tissue samples showed pathogenicity. Histological findings showed morphologically preserved osteocytes with points of bone degeneration and necrotic adipose tissue. No packaging showed contamination, cytotoxicity, or pyrogenicity. The mechanical properties of these packages demonstrated uniformity in thickness, high tension, and relative stiffness even after storage (p = 0.001). It is concluded that the packaging used in the study presented physical integrity, sterility, and microbial protection for bone tissues after 9 and 10 years of storage. A possible increase in the shelf life of fabrics is contemplated to up to 10 years. Such results expand future research directions to continuously improve the quality of products and services offered by BTH.
Amniotic membrane extract provides significant improvement in in vitro wound healing model while preserving the basic cellular functions of human corneal epithelial cells
Although many preclinical and clinical studies are ongoing on amniotic membrane extract (AME), an amniotic membrane-derived product developed to support ocular surface healing, the effect of AME on the basic cellular functions and properties of human corneal epithelial cells (hCECs) has not been clearly defined. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of AME supplementation to the culture media, on basic cellular functions of hCECs and on expression of specific cell markers of hCECs, as well as to determine its effectiveness in an experimental in vitro wound model. hCECs were seeded with the constant cell density in 6, 24 and 48 well plates. The next day, the media was refreshed with 0 mg/ml, 0.75 mg/ml, 1.5 mg/ml and 3 mg/ml final concentration of AME supplemented complete growth medium. Cellular morphology, viability, metabolic activity, proliferation assessments and immunocytochemistry were conducted on the time points at day 3, 6 and 9. Then, in vitro wound healing assay was performed on hCECs under the effect of AME. AME did not affect cellular morphology, viability, metabolic activity and proliferation. AME supplementation induced CK3 and CK12 expression of hCECs significantly (p < 0.05) higher than without AME group. In vitro wound healing assay revealed that while control and AME-treated cultures both exhibited healing, AME-treated mechanical abrasions closed at a greater rate compared to control. Our study shows that AME promotes in vitro wound healing and cell characteristics in terms of CK3 and CK12 protein expressions, while preserving basic cellular functions of corneal epithelial cells.
Long-term outcomes of corneal patch grafts
To evaluate long‑term outcomes of corneal patch grafting (CPG) and to determine prognostic factors for anatomical and functional success. This retrospective study included 35 eyes from 35 patients who underwent CPG between April 2016 and September 2022 at Adana City Training and Research Hospital. Collected data included age, sex, preoperative and postoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), graft localization and size, anterior segment findings, graft survival, secondary surgical procedures, and rates of anatomical and functional success. Anatomical success was achieved in 82.9% (29/35), and functional success in 45.7% (16/35). The most common reason for CPG was non-infectious, non-traumatic perforation related to immune disorders (37.1%). Anatomical success was not significantly associated with the primary etiology (p = 0.73), whereas functional success was significantly higher in patients with traumatic corneal perforations (p = 0.029). A statistically significant improvement was observed in postoperative BCVA for the study group (p < 0.001). Functional success was significantly associated with younger age and peripheral graft location (p = 0.005 and p < 0.001, respectively). Smaller graft diameter was significantly correlated with both higher anatomical and functional success (p = 0.031 and p = 0.007, respectively), while no significant association was found with horizontal graft diameter (p = 0.27 and p = 0.068, respectively). Corneal patch grafting is a highly effective technique for restoring anatomical integrity in most patients and provides acceptable functional outcomes in selected cases. Younger age, peripheral graft location, and smaller graft diameter appear to be favorable prognostic factors for functional recovery.
Eye bank pre-stripped versus surgeon-stripped graft for Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty: a systematic review and meta-analysis
To summarize the evidence examining the outcomes of Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) using eye bank pre-stripped versus surgeon prepared grafts. Systematic review and meta-analysis. This study was conducted following the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses consensus statement (PROSPERO ID: CRD42023457120). Searches of medline (Ovid), EMBASE, EMCARE, the Cochrane register of controlled trials, and grey literature were performed until April 2025. All comparative studies comparing DMEK outcomes after eye bank prepared (pre-stripped only) with surgeon-prepared tissue were included. Two independent reviewers completed data extraction and performed quality assessments. The primary outcomes were the rebubbling rate and corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA). Results were summarized using a random-effects meta-analysis. Five studies totalling 750 eyes receiving DMEK grafts were included. Four were retrospective observational studies and one was a non-randomized prospective study. There were no significant differences between eye bank pre-stripped and surgeon-prepared graft outcomes with regards to rebubbling rate (odds ratio, 1.11; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.65 to 1.90) and postoperative logMAR CDVA (mean difference - 0.11, 95% CI - 0.23 to 0.01). No statistically significant difference was noted in postoperative corneal thickness, endothelial cell loss or density, and postoperative complications.Eye bank pre-stripped grafts and surgeon-prepared grafts yield comparable outcomes in terms of CDVA and rebubbling rates following DMEK.However, there is limited evidence, as only five studies were included in this analysis.
Increased serologic reactivity with automated CMIA testing and its implications for deceased donor eligibility determination in the United States
In the United States, the use of Food & Drug Administration (FDA)-licensed, approved, or cleared tests is required for infectious disease screening and determining the eligibility of deceased donors for all Human Cells, Tissues, and Cellular and Tissue-Based Products (HCT/Ps). With the discontinuation of two manual enzyme-linked immunoassay (EIA) tests, automated Chemiluminescent Microparticle Immunoassay (CMIA) technology was introduced as the primary alternative. This study compares serologic reactivity rates between manual EIA and automated CMIA methods. Serology testing was performed on blood specimens from deceased tissue and cornea donors using either manual EIA assays or automated CMIA platforms. A retrospective analysis of over 160,000 donors was conducted to evaluate assay-specific reactive rates. Concordance between serology and Nucleic Acid Testing (NAT) results was also assessed. Reactive rates for HBsAg, HIV-1/2 antibodies, and HTLV-I/II antibodies increased following the transition to CMIA-based testing compared to manual EIA methods. However, these increases were not associated with a corresponding rise in NAT reactive results, indicating a potential increase in false-positive or non-viremic results. Automated testing offers improved quality control and reduces variability associated with manual techniques. However, the shift to CMIA assays resulted in a higher number of reactive serology results, leading to increased donor ineligibility despite negative NAT results. The data presented here highlights the potential impact on donor deferral rates for tissue and cornea donors due to assay platform changes.
Modulatory effect of three cartilaginous niches on cartilage regeneration from different chondrocyte sources in a goat model
The body has evolved three types of cartilage: hyaline, elastic, and fibrocartilage. Modern tissue engineering techniques can harvest different types of chondrocytes, expand them in vitro, and use them to repair various cartilage defects. However, the modulatory effect of different cartilaginous niches on the type of regenerated cartilage after the implantation of chondrocytes from different origins remains unknown. In this study, three typical types of cartilage-auricular (elastic cartilage), articular (hyaline cartilage), and meniscus (fibrocartilage)-were investigated. Chondrocytes derived from these cartilages were mixed with Pluronic gel and implanted into three different cartilaginous niches for one month using a goat model. Our results demonstrated that in the articular cartilage environment, regenerated cartilage from auricular chondrocytes lost elastin expression, and cartilage from meniscus chondrocytes lacked a fibrous structure, showing reduced type I collagen and increased type II collagen expression, all resembling a hyaline cartilage-like structure. In the auricular cartilage environment, regenerated cartilage from articular chondrocytes did not express elastin, maintaining a hyaline cartilage-like structure, while fibrocartilage chondrocytes failed to form regenerated cartilage. In the fibrocartilage environment, regenerated cartilage from auricular and meniscus chondrocytes did not exhibit a fibrous structure, with weak type I collagen expression and positive type II collagen expression. Regenerated cartilage from auricular chondrocytes did not express elastin and did not transform into fibrocartilage. This study provides valuable insights into how different cartilaginous niches influence the characteristics of regenerated cartilage, offering potential implications for improving cartilage repair strategies in tissue engineering.
Efficacy of Platelet and Leukocyte Rich Fibrin (L-PRF) in the healing process and bone repair in maxillary sinus lift surgeries: a systematic review
Sinus lift surgery is essential after pneumatization caused by loss of posterior teeth. Leukocyte-Platelet-Rich Fibrin (L-PRF) accelerates bone healing by releasing growth factors that promote angiogenesis, cell differentiation, and inflammatory modulation. To evaluate the efficacy of L-PRF in bone healing and repair in sinus lift surgeries, in addition to investigating its role in angiogenesis and inflammatory modulation. The systematic review protocol included definition of the research question, search strategy, inclusion and exclusion criteria, study types, effect measures, screening methods, and data analysis. The search resulted in 860 studies. After removal of duplicates, 704 articles remained, of which 11 met the inclusion criteria. After careful evaluation, 4 studies were considered highly relevant and included in the systematic review. Evidence indicates that the combination of L-PRF with bone grafts, such as DBBM, can accelerate bone formation and allow early implant placement, supported by increased expression of protein markers essential for osteogenesis. The addition of L-PRF to DBBM demonstrated significant benefits in promoting a more favorable bone environment, reducing the time required for osseointegration.
Bovine pericardial patch with reduced crosslinking time preserves matrix integrity and mitigates calcification in rat subcutaneous tissue
Prosthetic valves derived from bovine pericardium (BP) are crucial for heart valve replacement, yet current crosslinking methods with glutaraldehyde can lead to immune responses and calcification. This study evaluated the effects of reducing the glutaraldehyde crosslinking time from 10 to 5 days in bovine pericardial patches for use as heart valve substitutes. In addition to examining the physical properties of the BP, the study analyzed the biocompatibility, tissue structure, and calcification of the pericardial tissue. BPs were processed using two protocols based on the fixation time with glutaraldehyde: BP10d (10 days) and BP5d (5 days). All samples were treated with glutamic acid to neutralize residual aldehyde groups from the glutaraldehyde. Subsequently, the resulting material was assessed for mechanical and thermal properties and histologically using light and scanning electron microscopy. Post-implantation histological evaluation and calcium content determination were conducted after 7, 14, 30, 60 and 120 days. The calcification was a rare occurrence. However, some samples from the BP10d group displayed positive Von Kossa staining, indicating mineral deposition. Chemical analysis using ICP-OES revealed low calcium concentrations in the explants of both groups, with higher concentrations observed in the BP10d group during the later analysis periods. Mechanical and thermal stability assessments showed no significant differences between experimental groups. Histological examination revealed more collagen and elastic fibers deformation, and inflammation in the BP10d group compared to the BP5d group. The revised manufacturing protocol, with a 5-day fixation time, showed promising anti-calcifying activity, biocompatibility, and tissue preservation.
