| abstract |
Disclosed are methods of forming grafts (e.g., autologous vascular grafts, biliary conduits, ureter conduits, etc.) for implantation into subjects in need thereof. The methods employ an electrospun scaffold formed from nanofibers that comprise a blend of a biodegradable synthetic polymer and a biopolymer. Extracellular matrix-producing cells (e.g., fibroblasts) can then be cultured on the electrospun scaffold in a bioreactor to form a cellular, tubular structure. The tubular structure can then be decellularized, and endothelial cells (e.g., endothelial cells obtained from the subject) can be cultured on the resulting decellularized scaffold to form a graft (e.g., autologous vascular grafts) for implantation into a subject. Because decellularized scaffolds can be prepared in advance, the methods described herein can be used to prepare autologous grafts for implantation in a subject in a relatively short, clinically relevant timeframe (e.g., from one week to one month). |