Development of multilayered artificial urethra graft for urethroplasty

Abstract

To enhance the treatment of patients' urethral defects, such as strictures and hypospadias, we investigated the potential of using artificial urethral tissue. Our study aimed to generate this tissue and assess its effectiveness in a rabbit model. Two types of bioprinted grafts, based on methacrylated gelatin‐silk fibroin (GelMA‐SF) hydrogels, were produced: acellular, as well as loaded with autologous rabbit stem cells. Rabbit adipose stem cells (RASC) were differentiated toward smooth muscle in the GelMA‐SF hydrogel, while rabbit buccal mucosa stem cells (RBMC), differentiated toward the epithelium, were seeded on its surface, forming two layers of the cell‐laden tissue. The constructs were then reinforced with polycaprolactone‐polylactic acid meshes to create implantable multilayered artificial urethral grafts. In vivo experiments showed that the cell‐laden tissue integrated into the urethra with less fibrosis and inflammation compared to its acellular counterpart. Staining to trace the implanted cells confirmed integration into the host organism 3 months postsurgery.