Comparison of different decellularization procedures of porcine heart valves

Background: Tissue engineering of heart valves should avoid the disadvantages of conventional prostheses. In this study we tested different decellularization procedures for their potential of cell removal and their ability to preserve the matrix. Methods: Specimens of porcine aortic and pulmonary roots were treated with either trypsin or sodium-dodecyl-sulfate (SDS) or Triton-X 100® and sodium-deoxycholate with a range of concentrations. Tissue samples were then processed for scanning electron microscopy and laser scanning microscopy. Results: Trypsin achieved only incomplete decellularization and caused severe structural alterations of the matrix. In contrast SDS removed cells completely but caused strong structural alterations. Treatment with Triton-X100® and sodium-deoxycholate achieved both complete decellularization and preservation of the matrix structure. Conclusion: Techniques of decellularization are highly variable in efficiency and matrix preservation and was best achieved in our study with Triton-X100® and sodium deoxycholate.