Background:

The success of a tissue engineered construct is greatly influenced by the choice of scaffold material. Decellularized esophageal matrix is a promising material for esophageal tissue engineering. The aim of this study was to develop a decellularized ovine esophageal mucosa and to investigate the effect of decellularization on the appearance of the resulting tissue.

Methods:

Ovine esophagi were decellularized by combination of agitation, enzymatic digestion and treatment with 1 and 5% sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS). Efficiency of decellularization was assessed by histological examination and DNA quantification. Finally, the effect of decellularization on tissue morphology was investigated by scanning electron microscopy.

Results:

Decellularization resulted in a highly efficient removal of cells and DNA content. Electron microscopic investigation revealed a denuded, rough, undulating surface with preserved papillary structures. Individual papillae had a length of approximately 55 μm and were present at a density of 1332 μm/mm². Closer examination revealed a tightly packed sponge-like appearance with pores in the region of 300 nm. Numerous, intact collagen fibres were also visible.

Conclusion:

Ovine esophagus can be successfully decellularized through treatment with SDS. The resulting decellularized mucosal surface possesses a rough, 2D surface with a well preserved extracellular matrix. Such a material may be of advantage in tissue engineering of the esophagus. Characterisation of the papillary layer gives important insight into the suitability of decellularized esophageal mucosa for use in esophageal reconstruction and also provides morphological information which may help in the design of synthetic, biomimetic materials.