Synthetic biodegradable alternatives to the use of the amniotic membrane for corneal regeneration: assessment of local and systemic toxicity in rabbits.

AIM: The aim of this study was to assess the local and systemic response to poly-lactic co-glycolic acid (PLGA) 50:50 membranes, developed as synthetic biodegradable alternatives to the use of human donor amniotic membrane in the treatment of limbal stem cell deficiency. METHODS: PLGA membranes of 2 cm diameter and 50 µm thickness were placed on one eye of rabbits and secured in place using fibrin glue and a bandage contact lens, suturing the eye close with a single stitch. Control animals were treated identically, with the absence of the membranes. Plain and microfabricated electrospun membranes (containing micropockets which roughly emulate the native limbal niche) were examined over 29 days. All animals were subjected to a detailed gross and histopathological observation as well as a detailed examination of the eye. RESULTS: Application of the membranes both with and without microfabricated pockets did not adversely affect animal welfare. There was complete degradation of the membranes by day 29. The membranes did not induce any significant local or systemic toxicity. Conjunctival congestion and corneal vascularisation were noted in a few control and PLGA-treated animals. Intraocular pressure was normal and the retinal status was unaltered. The ocular surface was clear and intact in all animals by the end of 29 days. CONCLUSION: Membranes of 50:50 PLGA can be safely applied to rabbit corneas without inducing any local or systemic toxicity and these break down completely within 29 days.

Fluorescent Reporter Mice for Nerve Guidance Conduit Assessment: A High-Throughput in vivo Model.

OBJECTIVE: Use of cell culture and conventional in vivo mammalian models to assess nerve regeneration across guidance conduits is resource-intensive. Herein we describe a high-throughput platform utilizing transgenic mice for stain-free axon visualization paired with rapid cryosection techniques for low-cost screening of novel bioengineered nerve guidance conduit performance. METHODS: Interposition repair of sciatic nerve transection in mice expressing yellow fluorescent protein in peripheral neurons (Thy1.2 YFP-16) was performed with various bioengineered neural conduit compositions using a rapid sutureless entubulation technique under isoflurane anesthesia. Axonal ingrowth was assessed at 3 and 6 weeks using epifluorescent microscopy following cryosectioning. RESULTS: Mean procedure time (incision-to-closure) was less than 2½ minutes. Direct operational costs of a 3-week experiment was calculated at $21.47 per animal. Tissue processing steps were minimized to aldehyde fixation, cryoprotection and sectioning, and rapid fluorescent dye staining for conduit visualization. Fluorescent microscopy readily resolved robust axonal sprouting at 3 weeks, with clear elucidation of ingrowth-permissive, semipermissive, or restrictive nerve guidance conduit environments. CONCLUSION: A rapid and cost-efficient in vivo platform for screening of nerve guidance conduit performance has been described. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: NA. Laryngoscope, E392-E392, 2018.

A cost-effective cell- and matrix-based minimally invasive single-stage chondroregenerative technique developed with validated vertical translation methodology.

Introduction The morbidity and significant health economic impact associated with the chondral lesion has led to a large number of strategies for therapeutic neochondrogenesis. The challenge has been to develop techniques that are cost effective single-stage procedures with minimal surgical trauma that have undergone rigorous preclinical scrutiny and robust reproducible assessment of effectiveness. A biological repair requires the generation of a cellular and matrix composite with appropriate signalling for chondrogenic differentiation. Methods and results A technique was developed that allowed chondrogenic primary (uncultured) cells from bone marrow aspirate concentrate, combined with a composite hydrophilic and fibrillar matrix to be applied arthroscopically to a site of a chondral lesion. The construct was tested in vitro and in animal experiments before clinical trials. Clinical trials involved 60 patients in a prospective study. Symptomatic International Cartilage Repair Society grade 3 and 4a lesions were mapped and treated. Pre- and postoperative clinical assessments showed statistically significant improved outcomes; Lysholm Knee Scoring Scale (mean 52.8 to > 76.4; P < 0.05) International Knee Documentation Committee (mean 39 to > 79 P < 0.05) and Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (64.5 to >89.2 P < 0.05). Postoperative magnetic resonance imaging was evaluated morphologically (magnetic resonance observation of cartilage repair tissue, average MOCART score 72) and qualitatively; the regenerate was comparable to native cartilage. Conclusions This technique is effective, affordable, requires no complex tools and delivers a single-stage treatment that is potentially accessible to any centre capable of performing arthroscopic surgery. Good clinical results were found to be sustained at five years of follow-up with a regenerate that appears hyaline like using multiple magnetic resonance measures.

In vivo assessment of a nanofibrous silk tube as nerve guide for sciatic nerve regeneration.

A nanofibrous silk nerve conduit has been evaluated for its efficiency based on the promotion of peripheral nerve regeneration in rats. The designed tubes with or without Schwann cells were implanted into a 10 mm gap in the sciatic nerves of the rats. Four months after the surgery, the regenerated nerves were monitored and evaluated by macroscopic assessments and histology. The results demonstrated that the nanofibrous grafts, especially in the presence of Schwann cells, enabled reconstruction of the rat sciatic nerve trunk with a restoration of nerve continuity and formation of nerve fibres with myelination. Histological data demonstrated the presence of Schwann and glial cells in regenerated nerves. This study strongly supports the feasibility of using artificial nerve grafts for peripheral nerve regeneration by bridging large defects in a rat model.

Imaging assessment of bioresorbable vascular scaffolds.

Vascular reparative therapy has become a reality with bioresorbable scaffolds (BRSs). To assess acute and long-term performance of the device, multimodality imaging would be essential. Radiopacity of metal hinders the imaging assessment, whereas radiolucent polymeric scaffolds allow for a precise imaging assessment with either invasive or non-invasive modality at baseline and at follow-up, which is one of the advantages of polymeric BRSs. Recent large trials evaluating clinical results of the first-generation BRS technology raised concerns about the safety and efficacy of these devices, namely, scaffold thrombosis. Intensive research with multimodality imaging in the field is being conducted to have in-depth understanding of the issues, which will facilitate the improvement of implantation techniques and the development of the next-generation BRSs. The current review focuses on the clinical application of the imaging modalities to assess the short- and long-term performance of the Absorb BVS.

Procedimentos de regeneração pulpar: avaliação longitudinal imune / Procedimentos de regeneração pulpar: avaliação imune / Pulpar regeneration procedures: Longitudinal imune assessment

O tratamento endodôntico em dentes com desenvolvimento radicular incompleto está relacionado a algumas dificuldades e limitações. Entretanto, apesar das dificuldades técnicas, a alta susceptibilidade à fratura de dentes com rizogênese incompleta representa o fator chave para a busca de novas modalidades terapêuticas. Adicionalmente, as deficiências estéticas e funcionais apresentadas pelas terapias reabilitadoras após a perda de um elemento dentário permanente em um paciente jovem, também são fatores importantes e estimuladores. Assim, fica evidente a necessidade de pesquisas que disponibilizem novas opções terapêuticas conservadoras, com resultados previsíveis. O estudo objetivou investigar a resposta imunoinflamatória de dentes submetidos a diferentes protocolos descritos na literatura para se executar a terapia endodôntica regeneradora. Para isso, a expressão de moléculas inflamatórias e fatores de crescimento/diferenciação celular expressos nos tecidos pulpares foram analisados em diferentes intervalos de tempo, utilizando-se um modelo murino desenvolvido para a presente pesquisa. 54 Camundongos Balb/C tiveram as câmaras pulpares de seus molares superiores abertas e, subsequentemente submetidas à pulpectomia. Os animais foram então divididos em 3 grupos: grupo Sangramento (Blood) ­ preenchimento do espaço pulpar com coágulo sanguíneo; grupo EDTA + Sangramento (EDTA + Blood) ­ irrigação dos canais com solução de EDTA a 17% por 1 min, seguido do preenchimento do espaço pulpar com coágulo sanguíneo; grupo Vazio (Empty) ­ espaço pulpar deixado vazio. Cada grupo foi composto por 18 animais. De cada grupo, 6 animais foram sacrificados nos intervalos de 7, 14 e 21 dias após os experimentos. Utilizando-se a análise da reação em cadeia da polimerase em tempo real (Real Time PCR) avaliou-se a expressão gênica das citocinas IL-1, TNF-ß, IL-10 e dos fatores de crescimento/diferenciação NGF, IGF e VEGF, comparando-se tais achados inter e extra-grupos, nos diferentes períodos de avaliação. Os resultados demonstraram as maiores expressões dos mediadores pró-inflamatórios no grupo Empty, assim como uma maior expressão de mediadores anti-inflamatórios no grupo experimental preenchido com o coágulo sanguíneo. O grupo EDTA + Blood evidenciou a maior expressão gênica de fatores de crescimento/diferenciação, em todos os períodos analisados, quando comparado aos demais grupos. Pode-se concluir que a irrigação com solução de EDTA a 17%, previamente ao preenchimento dos sistemas de canais radiculares (SCR) com o scaffold (coágulo sanguíneo), estimulou a expressão aumentada de mediadores relacionados ao sucesso da terapia endodôntica regenerativa. Adicionalmente, o modelo animal desenvolvido para a pesquisa mostrou-se eficaz para se analisar longitudinalmente a modulação imune que se processa nos tecidos pulpoperirradiculares após a instituição da terapia.(AU)

Endodontic treatment in teeth with incomplete root development is related to some difficulties and limitations. However, despite the technical difficulties, the high susceptibility to fracture of teeth with incomplete rhizogenesis represents the key factor for the search for new therapeutic modalities. Additionally, the aesthetic and functional deficits presented by rehabilitation therapies after the loss of a permanent dental element in a young patient are also important and stimulating factors. Thus, it is evident the need for research that offers new conservative therapeutic options, with predictable results. Aimed to investigate the immunoinflammatory response of teeth submitted to different protocols described in the literature to perform the regenerative endodontic therapy. For this, the expression of inflammatory molecules and cell growth/differentiation factors expressed in pulpal tissues were analyzed at different time intervals using a murine model developed for the present study. 54 Balb/C mice had the pulp chambers of their upper molars opened and subsequently submitted to pulpectomy (one tooth per animal). The animals were then divided into 3 groups: Bleeding group - filling of the pulp space with blood clot; EDTA + Bleeding group (EDTA + Blood) - irrigation of the channels with 17% EDTA solution for 1 min, followed by filling of the pulp space with blood clot; Empty - pulp space left empty (negative control). Each group consisted of 18 animals. From each group, 6 animals were sacrificed at 7, 14 and 21 day intervals after the experiments. Using real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), the cytokines IL-1, TNF-ß, IL-10 and the growth/differentiation factors NGF, IGF and VEGF, comparing such inter and extra group findings in the different evaluation periods. The results showed the highest expressions of the pro-inflammatory mediators in the Empty group, as well as a greater expression of anti-inflammatory mediators in the Experimental group filled with the blood clot. The EDTA + Blood group evidenced the greater gene expression of growth / differentiation factors, in all periods analyzed, when compared to the other groups. It can be concluded that irrigation with 17% EDTA solution, prior to filling the root canals system with the scaffold (blood clot), stimulated the increased expression of detrimental mediators for the success of regenerative endodontic therapy. Additionally, the animal model developed for the research proved to be effective in longitudinally analyzing the immune modulation that occurs in octopus-periradicular tissues after the institution of therapy.(AU)

Assessment of Bone Regeneration Using Adipose-Derived Stem Cells in Critical-Size Alveolar Ridge Defects: An Experimental Study in a Dog Model.

PURPOSE: To assess bone regeneration potential of a fibronectin- and adipose-derived stem cell-covered ceramic biomaterial in three-wall critical-size alveolar ridge defects. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In 18 dogs, four dehiscence-type and critical-size defects were created surgically in the edentulous alveolar ridge. Defects were randomly regenerated using biomaterials coated with particulate ß-tricalcium phosphate (ß-TCP), ß-TCP with fibronectin (Fn) (ß-TCP-Fn), and ß-TCP with a combination of Fn and autologous adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) (ß-TCP-Fn-ADSCs), leaving one defect as control. The animals were divided into three groups according to the time of euthanasia (1, 2, or 3 months of healing). RESULTS: At the time of sacrifice, statistically significant differences between the four types of defects in the total area of bone regeneration, percentage of neoformed bone matrix, medullary space, or contact between particulate biomaterial and neoformed bone matrix were not found. All defects showed a significant increase in neoformed bone matrix as sacrifice was delayed, but a uniform pattern was not followed. Only defects treated with ß-TCP-Fn-ADSCs showed a significant increase in the bone regeneration area when animals sacrificed at 3 months were compared to those sacrificed at 1 month (P = .006). CONCLUSION: The use of ADSCs in bone regeneration processes of critical-size defects of the alveolar ridge did not entail an advantage regarding greater bone regeneration as compared with other biomaterials. However, the use of ß-TCP coated with a combination of Fn and ADSCs appeared to favor stabilization of the regenerated area, allowing a more efficient maintenance of the space at 3 months of healing.

Assessment of the Safety of Chondrocyte Sheet Implantation for Cartilage Regeneration.

We have previously studied the effects of chondrocyte sheets on the repair and regeneration of articular cartilage by using temperature-responsive culture inserts. On the basis of this work, we succeeded in rapid fabrication of chondrocyte sheets with the use of a coculture method in which inserts were placed between synoviocytes and chondrocytes. Treatment of cartilage defects using layered chondrocyte sheets promotes repair and regeneration; this method is compatible with in vivo osteoarthritis models that reproduce partial-thickness defects. In human stem cell clinical research guidelines, the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) approved several applications related to this technology. Indeed, its translation to a clinical setting is already yielding favorable results. In this study, we evaluated the risk of tumorigenesis associated with this treatment and characterized the dynamics of biological processes associated with the posttransplantation cell sheets in vivo. Furthermore, we also confirmed the safety of the procedure by using array comparative genomic hybridization (array CGH) and G-band staining to screen for deleterious genetic aberrations during prolonged subculture of cells. The safety of chondrocytes that were cultured for longer than normal was confirmed by the array CGH and G-band staining results. In addition, tumorigenicity testing confirmed that culture chondrocyte sheets are not tumorigenic. Furthermore, from the evaluation of bioluminescence imaging following implantation of the cell sheets, it was confirmed that the transplanted chondrocytes and synoviocytes remained in the knee joint and did not transfer elsewhere over time. We believe that the technique used in this study is a highly useful method for evaluating the safety of not only chondrocytes but also extensive subculturing in general.

Meeting current musculoskeletal health demand through deeper insights into tissue homeostasis and regeneration.

The burden of chronic musculoskeletal disorders is challenging and prompts therapeutic advancements. The notion that chronic conditions such as osteoarthritis and tendinopathy are linked to deficient healing by failure of one or several of the cellular/molecular processes involved is gaining ground. Alterations underpinning disruption of healing mechanisms that contribute to the development of chronic musculoskeletal pathologies include unresolved inflammation, abnormal angiogenic status, alterations in paracrine communication, decline in stem cell functioning and inability to maintain homeostasis in the extracellular matrix compartment. The complexity of failed healing may be challenged with interventions that target multiple biological processes such as cell therapies and/or platelet-rich plasma.

[Current treatment options with artificial corneas: Boston Kpro, Osteo-odontokeratoprosthesis, Miro Cornea® and KeraKlear®]. / Aktuelle Versorgungsmöglichkeiten mit Keratoprothesen : Boston-Keratoprothese, Osteoodontokeratoprothese, Miro Cornea® und KeraKlear®

BACKGROUND: Although corneal transplant surgery in avascular normal risk eyes is becoming even more minimally invasive and successful, treatment options for difficult to treat patients with high risk eyes are still limited. In these cases HLA typed allogeneic transplants and artificial corneas (keratoprostheses) can be used. METHODS: This article combines a review of the literature in PubMed and own clinical experiences on the use of artificial corneas in high risk eyes. Osteo-odontokeratoprosthesis (OOKP), Boston Kpro, Miro Cornea® and KeraKlear® corneas were used as clinical keratoprostheses. RESULTS: Worldwide, the most experience exists for the use of Boston Kpro and OOKP in high risk eyes. Miro Cornea® and KeraKlear® are new procedures where only preliminary results are available and further evaluation is necessary. The longest experience and best anatomical long-term results have been achieved with OOKPs. Comparable cohorts are available for the Boston Kpro. The function of all keratoprostheses is threatened by secondary glaucoma. Implantation of the KeraKlear® prosthesis remains difficult. The Miro Cornea® shows an initially stable integration behavior. CONCLUSION: Keratoprostheses, such as the Boston Kpro and OOKP are valid treatment options for eyes which are not open to therapy with allogeneic corneal transplantation. Modern implants such as KeraKlear® prosthesis and Miro Cornea® need further prospective clinical evaluation.

Bathysa cuspidata extract modulates the morphological reorganization of the scar tissue and accelerates skin wound healing in rats: a time-dependent study.

The technological development of pharmaceutical products based on plant extracts is currently responsible for a large number of recent innovations in healthcare. The objective of this study was to develop and investigate the effect and potential applicability of an ointment-based Bathysa cuspidata extract (BCE) for the management of skin wounds in rats. Three skin wounds of 12 mm in diameter were made on the backs of the animals, which were randomized into 4 groups according to the application received, i.e. the SAL group: 0.9% saline solution, the LAN group: lanolin, the BCE 2.5% group: 2.5% BCE emulsified in lanolin and the BCE 5% group: 5% BCE emulsified in lanolin. The applications were made daily over 21 days, and every 7 days tissue from different wounds was removed. On days 7, 14 and 21, the BCE 2.5% and BCE 5% groups showed the best results in relation to wound closure, and a higher proportion (in length, density and volume) of blood vessels and fibroblasts compared to the other groups. On days 7 and 14, there was a significant increase in the number of mast cells in these 2 groups when compared to the SAL and LAN groups. On day 21, they also had a higher proportion of collagen I than collagen III. B. cuspidata in an ointment base was effective in stimulating tissue cellularity, mast cell recruitment, neoangiogenesis, synthesis and maturation of collagen, epidermal thickness and surface area in scar tissue. These events were potentially related to the best quality and speed for skin regeneration in the rats treated with the BCE ointment.

Radiological assessment of bioengineered bone in a muscle flap for the reconstruction of critical-size mandibular defect.

This study presents a comprehensive radiographic evaluation of bone regeneration within a pedicled muscle flap for the reconstruction of critical size mandibular defect. The surgical defect (20 mm × 15 mm) was created in the mandible of ten experimental rabbits. The masseter muscle was adapted to fill the surgical defect, a combination of calcium sulphate/hydroxyapatite cement (CERAMENT™ |SPINE SUPPORT), BMP-7 and rabbit mesenchymal stromal cells (rMSCs) was injected inside the muscle tissue. Radiographic assessment was carried out on the day of surgery and at 4, 8, and 12 weeks postoperatively. At 12 weeks, the animals were sacrificed and cone beam computerized tomography (CBCT) scanning and micro-computed tomography (µ-CT) were carried out. Clinically, a clear layer of bone tissue was identified closely adherent to the border of the surgical defect. Sporadic radio-opaque areas within the surgical defect were detected radiographically. In comparison with the opposite non operated control side, the estimated quantitative scoring of the radio-opacity was 46.6% ± 15, the mean volume of the radio-opaque areas was 63.4% ± 20. Areas of a bone density higher than that of the mandibular bone (+35% ± 25%) were detected at the borders of the surgical defect. The micro-CT analysis revealed thinner trabeculae of the regenerated bone with a more condensed trabecular pattern than the surrounding native bone. These findings suggest a rapid deposition rate of the mineralised tissue and an active remodelling process of the newly regenerated bone within the muscle flap. The novel surgical model of this study has potential clinical application; the assessment of bone regeneration using the presented radiolographic protocol is descriptive and comprehensive. The findings of this research confirm the remarkable potential of local muscle flaps as local bioreactors to induce bone formation for reconstruction of maxillofacial bony defects.

Análise histológica e histomorfométrica do processo de reparo de defeitos ósseos em ratos diabéticos preenchidos com osso autógeno e recobertos por membrana de matriz óssea homógena ou por membrana de politetrafluoretileno / Histological and histomorphometric analysis of bone repair process in defects of diabetic rats filled with autogenous bone graft covered with homogenous bone matrix membrane or polytetrafluoroethylene membrane

O objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar histologicamente e histomorfometricamente o processo de reparo de defeitos ósseos em ratos diabéticos preenchidos com osso autógeno e recoberto por membranas de matriz óssea homógena ou politetrafluoretileno expandido (PTFe). Materiais e métodos: Para a obtenção da membrana homógena foram utilizados 40 animais saudáveis, não incluídos no grupo experimental. No experimento foram utilizados 120 ratos (Rattus norvegicus albinus, Wistar) machos, com peso aproximado de 250 gramas, divididos em dois grupos: o grupo I (IC), sem alterações sistêmicas (Controle) recebeu injeção de tampão citrato a 0,01M, ph 4,5, pela via endovenosa e o grupo II (Diabético) ou IID recebeu pela mesma via de administração (veia peniana) injeção de estreptozotocina (Sigma-Aldrich) dissolvida em tampão citrato a 0,01M, ph 4,5, em uma concentração de 35mg/Kg. Após controle glicêmico os ratos sem alterações sistêmicas (grupo controle) e diabéticos foram subdivididos em três subgrupos de experimentos: SM - a cavidade cirúrgica da tíbia esquerda foi preenchida com enxertos ósseos autógenos, não sendo recoberta por membrana, MH - a cavidade também preenchida com enxertos ósseos foi recoberta por membrana homógena e MX - o recobrimento foi feito com membrana sintética de PTFe. Os animais foram eutanaziados aos 10 e 60 dias e as tíbias foram submetidas ao processamento laboratorial de rotina para análise histológica e histométrica. Resultados: Aos 10 dias não foram encontradas diferenças estatisticamente significantes entre os diabéticos e não-diabéticos que tiveram suas feridas recobertas ou não com as membranas. No entanto, nesse tempo, o tecido ósseo do grupo diabético apresentou-se qualitativamente pior se comparado ao do grupo controle. Aos 60 dias constatou-se atraso no processo de reparo ósseo nas feridas recobertas pelas membranas, se comparado ao grupo sem membrana, independentemente do estado sistêmico. Aos 60 dias as membranas...

To carry out histological and histomorphometric analysis of the bone repair process in diabetic rats filled with autogenous bone graft and covered with homogenous demineralized bone matrix membrane or expanded polytetrafluoroethylene membrane (e-PTF). Materials and Methods: In order to obtain the homogenous membrane, 40 healthy animals not included in the experimental group were used. In the experiment 120 male rats (Rattus norvegicus albinus, Wistar) weighing approximately 250g were divided into two groups. Group I (IC) had no systemic alterations (Control) and received an intravenous citrate buffer injection at 0.01 M, pH 4.5, while Group II (Diabetic) or IID received an intravenous injection of streptozotocin (Sigma-Aldrich) dissolved in citrate buffer at 0.01M, ph 4.5 in a concentration of 35 mg/kg. After glycemic control, the rats with no systemic alterations (Control group) and the diabetic rats were subdivided into three subgroups, as follows: SM - surgical cavity of left tibia was filled with autogenous bone grafting not covered by membrane; MH - bone grafting covered by homogenous membrane; and MX - bone grafting covered by expanded polytetrafluoroethylene membrane (e-PTFE). The animals were euthanized at 10 and 60 days and the tibiae were submitted to routine laboratorial processing for histological and histomorphometric analysis. Results: At 10 days, there were no statistically significant differences between diabetic and non-diabetic rats which had their wounds covered or not covered with the membranes. However, at 10 days the bone tissue of the diabetic group was qualitatively worse in comparison to that of the control group. At 60 days a delay was found in the bone repair process in wounds covered by membranes when compared to the group without membrane, regardless of the systemic state. At 60 days the membranes installed on the bone defect showed satisfactory responses in both groups regarding the quality of the newly formed bone when...

Análise histológica e histomorfométrica do processo de reparo de defeitos ósseos em ratos diabéticos preenchidos com osso autógeno e recobertos por membrana de matriz óssea homógena ou por membrana de politetrafluoretileno / Histological and histomorphometric analysis of bone repair process in defects of diabetic rats filled with autogenous bone graft covered with homogenous bone matrix membrane or polytetrafluoroethylene membrane

Proposição: O objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar histologicamente e histomorfometricamente o processo de reparo de defeitos ósseos em ratos diabéticos preenchidos com osso autógeno e recoberto por membranas de matriz óssea homógena ou politetrafluoretileno expandido (PTFe). Materiais e métodos: Para a obtenção da membrana homógena foram utilizados 40 animais saudáveis, não incluídos no grupo experimental. No experimento foram utilizados 120 ratos (Rattus norvegicus albinus, Wistar) machos, com peso aproximado de 250 gramas, divididos em dois grupos: o grupo I (IC), sem alterações sistêmicas (Controle) recebeu injeção de tampão citrato a 0,01M, ph 4,5, pela via endovenosa e o grupo II (Diabético) ou IID recebeu pela mesma via de administração (veia peniana) injeção de estreptozotocina (Sigma-Aldrich) dissolvida em tampão citrato a 0,01M, ph 4,5, em uma concentração de 35mg/Kg. Após controle glicêmico os ratos sem alterações sistêmicas (grupo controle) e diabéticos foram subdivididos em três subgrupos de experimentos: SM - a cavidade cirúrgica da tíbia esquerda foi preenchida com enxertos ósseos autógenos, não sendo recoberta por membrana, MH - a cavidade também preenchida com enxertos ósseos foi recoberta por membrana homógena e MX - o recobrimento foi feito com membrana sintética de PTFe. Os animais foram eutanaziados aos 10 e 60 dias e as tíbias foram submetidas ao processamento laboratorial de rotina para análise histológica e histométrica. Resultados: Aos 10 dias não foram encontradas diferenças estatisticamente significantes entre os diabéticos e não-diabéticos que tiveram suas feridas recobertas ou não com as membranas. No entanto, nesse tempo, o tecido ósseo do grupo diabético apresentou-se qualitativamente pior se comparado ao do grupo controle. Aos 60 dias constatou-se atraso no processo de reparo ósseo nas feridas recobertas pelas membranas, se comparado ao grupo sem membrana, independentemente do estado sistêmico. Aos 60 dias as membranas...

Purpose: To carry out histological and histomorphometric analysis of the bone repair process in diabetic rats filled with autogenous bone graft and covered with homogenous demineralized bone matrix membrane or expanded polytetrafluoroethylene membrane (e-PTF). Materials and Methods: In order to obtain the homogenous membrane, 40 healthy animals not included in the experimental group were used. In the experiment 120 male rats (Rattus norvegicus albinus, Wistar) weighing approximately 250g were divided into two groups. Group I (IC) had no systemic alterations (Control) and received an intravenous citrate buffer injection at 0.01 M, pH 4.5, while Group II (Diabetic) or IID received an intravenous injection of streptozotocin (Sigma-Aldrich) dissolved in citrate buffer at 0.01M, ph 4.5 in a concentration of 35 mg/kg. After glycemic control, the rats with no systemic alterations (Control group) and the diabetic rats were subdivided into three subgroups, as follows: SM - surgical cavity of left tibia was filled with autogenous bone grafting not covered by membrane; MH - bone grafting covered by homogenous membrane; and MX - bone grafting covered by expanded polytetrafluoroethylene membrane (e-PTFE). The animals were euthanized at 10 and 60 days and the tibiae were submitted to routine laboratorial processing for histological and histomorphometric analysis. Results: At 10 days, there were no statistically significant differences between diabetic and non-diabetic rats which had their wounds covered or not covered with the membranes. However, at 10 days the bone tissue of the diabetic group was qualitatively worse in comparison to that of the control group. At 60 days a delay was found in the bone repair process in wounds covered by membranes when compared to the group without membrane, regardless of the systemic state. At 60 days the membranes installed on the bone defect showed satisfactory responses in both groups regarding the quality of the newly formed bone when..

[Biomechanics of cartilage tissue engineering constructs : Sensitive test procedure for assessment of biomechanical functionality and further development after in vivo transplantation]. / Biomechanik von Knorpel-Tissue-Engineering-Konstrukten : Sensitives Testverfahren zur Beurteilung deren biomechanischer Funktionalität und ihrer Weiterentwicklung nach In-vivo-Transplantation.

Specific biomechanical properties represent important quality markers of cartilage tissue engineering (TE) constructs. The aim of the study was to identify a sensitive biomechanical test to assess mechanical properties of cartilage TE constructs. Biomechanical testing of in vitro cultivated constructs following the very low rubber hardness (VLRH) principle illustrated significant differences between constructs cultured under chondrogenic conditions over various periods of time. An increase in proteoglycan and collagen type II deposition corresponded to increasing VLRH hardness values. Although a decrease in proteoglycan was detected after ectopic implantation of constructs into SCID mice, no reduction in biomechanical hardness values was observed. A functional estimation of TE constructs requires determination of biomechanical and biochemical parameters as quality features.

Keratinocytes in the treatment of severe burn injury: an update.

Burns are among the most life-threatening physical injuries, in which fast wound closure is crucial. The surgical burn care has evolved considerably throughout the past decennia resulting in a shift of therapeutic goals. Therapies aiming to provide coverage of the burn have been replaced by treatments that have both functional as aesthetic outcomes. The standard in treating severe burns is still early excision followed by skin grafting. The use of cultured keratinocytes to cover extensive burn wounds appeared very promising at first, but the technique still has several limitations of which the long time to culture, the major costs, the risk of infection and the need for an adequate dermal layer limit clinical application. The introduction of dermal substitutes, composite grafts, tissue engineering based on stem cell application have been advocated. The aim of this review is to assess the use of cultured keratinocytes in terms of technical aspects, clinical application, limitations and future perspectives. Cultured keratinocytes are expected to keep playing a role in wound healing, especially in the field of chronic wounds. In severe burns, despite its limitations, keratinocytes can be beneficial if implemented as one of the elements in a broader wound management.

Regenerative urology clinical trials: an ethical assessment of road blocks and solutions.

Tissue engineering--part of regenerative medicine--is a promising technology that could potentially offer elegant solutions to urogenital defects, but so far, it has fallen short of its potential. Within experimental studies for bladder and urethra reconstructions, two clinical applications have been described, but extension of these techniques to the broader urological patient population has not happened so far. In this article, we aim to identify the ethical road blocks in the clinical evaluation of tissue-engineered products under the European Medicines Agency and Food and Drug Administration regulations for pediatric urological conditions and, ultimately, to recommend strategies to overcome them. The use of human tissue-engineered products (HTEPs) to treat children with congenital urogenital defects poses challenges in the clinical testing phase, connected to three features of the application of this treatment in this patient group: (1) those associated with the product, namely, the multifaceted complexity of the HTEP; (2) those connected to the procedure, namely, the lack of a randomized controlled trial (RCT)-tested gold standard to compare the new treatment to and difficulties surrounding standardization of the treatment protocol; and (3) the patient's young age and associated problems concerning possible long-term effects and the informed consent process. Due to these problems, a conventional RCT is not the methodology of choice to evaluate this treatment in this patient group. The unpredictability of HTEPs necessitates stringent and long-term surveillance and registry to ensure the safety of patients treated with these products.

Proliferation assessment of primary human mesenchymal stem cells on collagen membranes for guided bone regeneration.

PURPOSE: Human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) hold the potential for bone regeneration because of their self-renewing and multipotent character. The goal of this study was to evaluate the influence of collagen membranes on the proliferation of hMSCs derived from bone marrow. A special focus was set on short-term eluates derived from collagen membranes, as volatile toxic materials washed out from these membranes may influence cell behavior during the short time course of oral surgery. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The proliferation of hMSCs seeded directly on a collagen membrane (BioGide) was evaluated quantitatively using the cell proliferation reagent WST-1 (4-3-[4-iodophenyl]-2-[4-nitrophenyl]-2H-[5-tetrazolio]-1, 3--benzol-disulfonate) and qualitatively by scanning electron microscopy. Two standard biocompatibility tests, namely the lactate dehydrogenase and MTT (3-[4, 5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl]-2, 5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazoliumbromide) tests, were performed using hMSCs cultivated in eluates from membranes incubated for 10 minutes, 1 hour, or 24 hours in serum-free cell culture medium. The data were analyzed statistically. RESULTS: Scanning electron microscopy showed large numbers of hMSCs with well-spread morphology on the collagen membranes after 7 days of culture. The WST test revealed significantly better proliferation of hMSCs on collagen membranes after 4 days of culture compared to cells cultured on a cover glass. Cytotoxicity levels were low, peaking in short-term eluates and decreasing with longer incubation times. CONCLUSION: Porcine collagen membranes showed good biocompatibility in vitro for hMSCs. If maximum cell proliferation rates are required, a prewash of membranes prior to application may be useful.

Decision tree for the management of periimplant diseases.

The development of implants reflects one of the foremost breakthroughs of dentistry. As the market keeps growing exponentially, the implantologist faces an unavoidable challenge, that is, how to deal with the complications associated with implants. Literature published so far has focused in dealing with the technical and surgical aspects of implant therapy. Information regarding the management of periimplant diseases is rather lacking. Hence, the purpose of this article is to provide an overview and description of periimplant diseases, along with treatment recommendations.

Silk fibroin conduits: a cellular and functional assessment of peripheral nerve repair.

Silk fibroin conduits were designed with appropriate porosity for peripheral nerve repair. The aim of this work was to use these conduits to examine cell inflammatory responses and functional recovery in a sciatic nerve defect model. A total of 45 randomized Lewis rats were used to create an 8-mm defect bridged by a silk guide, commercial collagen guide, or an autograft. After 1, 4, and 8 weeks, macrophage recruitment, percentage of newly formed collagen, number of myelinated axons, and gastrocnemius muscle mass were evaluated. Following 8 weeks, ED1+ cells in autograft and silk conduits decreased to <1% and 17% of week 1 values, respectively. Collagen formation revealed no difference for all measured time points, suggesting a similar foreign body response. Myelinated axon counts within the silk guide revealed a greater number of proximal spouts and distal connections than collagen guides. Gastrocnemius weights demonstrated a 27% decrease between silk and autografts after 8 weeks. This study demonstrates that, in addition to tailorable degradation rates, our silk conduits possess a favorable immunogenicity and remyelination capacity for nerve repair.