An In Vivo Biocompatibility Analysis of A Novel Tissue Regeneration Matrix Using A Pig Model

Author

Shamar ThomasFollow

Date of Award

5-2023

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Bioengineering

Committee Chair/Advisor

Dr. Brian Booth

Committee Member

Dr. Dan Simionescu

Committee Member

Dr. Angela Alexander Bryant

Abstract

The goal of this project is to develop an injectable bead scaffold to promote tissue regeneration in the void created by lumpectomy and to alleviate post lumpectomy problems by preventing local recurrence and minimizing surgical-related infections. Microbeads were synthesized from collagen type I and crosslinked with tannic acid to form the basis for this injectable therapeutic. Tannic acid acts as a therapeutic anticancer agent. The action mechanisms of tannins in breast cancer cells have been studied with studies showing tannins to be cytotoxic to cancer cells in a dose-dependent manner. Tannic acid induces apoptosis in breast cancer cells via caspase pathways. Tannic acid has also demonstrated antimicrobial properties. Collagen type I is a biomaterial routinely used in reconstructive surgeries.

To test the viability of tissue regeneration aspect of this potential therapy, an in vivo study was conducted using a pig model. The collagen/tannic acid beads were seeded with pig adipocytes to attach and grow on the matrix. The cells remodel the collagen as they grow thus releasing the tannic acid into the surrounding environment. Beads were injected orthotopically into the mammary glands, then excised at two time points for histological analysis. Tissue samples were fixed, embedded in paraffin, sectioned, and stained to determine cell types present. Additionally, samples of the kidneys and livers were collected for analysis. Our results indicate that the collagen beads were successful at promoting tissue regeneration, specifically by increasing expression of VEGFR, presence of adipocytes, intermediate filaments, and fibroblast.

Recommended Citation

Thomas, Shamar, "An In Vivo Biocompatibility Analysis of A Novel Tissue Regeneration Matrix Using A Pig Model" (2023). All Theses. 4027.
https://open.clemson.edu/all_theses/4027