Optimized growth conditions for tissue engineering of human cardiovascularstructures

Optimized in vitro formation of strong tissue is a prerequisite for tissue engineering of cardiovascular structures, such as heart valves and blood ve ssels. This study evaluates different growth media additives as to cell pro liferation, extracellular matrix formation, and mechanical characteristics, Biodegradable polymers were seeded with human vascular myofibroblasts. Gro up A was cultured with standard medium, groups B, C, and D were in addition supplemented with ascorbate, fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), and both res pectively. Analysis included histology, electron microsocopy, mechanical te sting, and biochemical assays for cell proliferation (DNA) and extracellula r matrix (collagen). DNA content increased in all groups, showing significa ntly more cells in group C and D after 14d. Collagen increased in all group s, except for C. Morphology showed viable, layered cellular tissue, with co llagen fibrils after 2w, most pronounced in B and D. Mechanical properties decreased initially, stabilizing after 2w In conclusion, standard nutrient media were efficient for seeded human Vascular cells cultured on biodegrada ble meshes. Supplementation with bFGF+ascorbate resulted in enhanced early cell proliferation and structurally more mature tissue formation.