Emerging Implications for Extracellular Matrix-Based Technologies in Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation

Figure 5

Minimally invasive delivery of ECM-based hydrogels. (a) ECM-derived hydrogels can be manufactured via enzymatic digestion of powdered ECM in an acidic 1 mg/mL pepsin solution. Gelation is induced by neutralizing the pH and salt concentration with 0.1 N NaOH solution followed by warming to 37°C. (b) ECM-derived hydrogels exist in a liquid phase at 25°C and therefore can be delivered minimally invasively via injection. Once in situ, hydrogels reach thermal equilibrium with the surrounding tissue and polymerize spontaneously at 37°C. Their degradation profile and biocompatible properties make ECM-derived hydrogels potential candidates for drug delivery applications.

(a)

(b)