Extracellular Matrix-Based and Electrospun Scaffolding Systems for Vaginal Reconstruction

Abstract

Congenital vaginal anomalies and pelvic organ prolapse affect different age groups of women and both have significant negative impacts on patients’ psychological well-being and quality of life. While surgical and non-surgical treatments are available for vaginal defects, their efficacy is limited, and they often result in long-term complications. Therefore, alternative treatment options are urgently needed. Fortunately, tissue-engineered scaffolds are promising new treatment modalities that provide an extracellular matrix (ECM)-like environment for vaginal cells to adhere, secrete ECM, and be remodeled by host cells. To this end, ECM-based scaffolds or the constructs that resemble ECM, generated by self-assembly, decellularization, or electrospinning techniques, have gained attention from both clinicians and researchers. These biomimetic scaffolds are highly similar to the native vaginal ECM and have great potential for clinical translation. This review article aims to discuss recent applications, challenges, and future perspectives of these scaffolds in vaginal reconstruction or repair strategies.

Recent Advances in the Application of 3D-Printing Bioinks Based on Decellularized Extracellular Matrix in Tissue Engineering

“…Vaginal detachment causes immense psychological and physical suffering to patients; therefore, vaginal reconstruction is necessary. Morphological repair and true functional reconstruction of the vagina are expected to be achieved with the help of 3D bioprinting . Hou C et al prepared a bioink using decellularized vaginal matrix (AVM) to obtain bionic 3D vaginal tissues via 3D-printing technology.…”

“…Morphological repair and true functional reconstruction of the vagina are expected to be achieved with the help of 3D bioprinting. 118 Hou C et al 119 prepared a bioink using decellularized vaginal matrix (AVM) to obtain bionic 3D vaginal tissues via 3D-printing technology. The bioink consisted of 15% gelatin and 3% sodium alginate mixed with AVM solution, and rheological analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and HE staining were performed to assess the viscosity, morphology, and biocompatibility of the bioink after configuration.…”