Recellularization of decellularized vascular grafts via aligned seeding of endothelial cells derived from human iPS cells.

The development of decellularized vascular tissues for tissue engineering and vascular implants presents a promising approach to creating functional blood vessels. However, effective endothelialization with human endothelial cells remains challenging. This study examined the endothelialization of decellularized porcine aortas using human induced pluripotent stem (hiPS) cell-derived endothelial cells. Various decellularization methods were used to create vessels with different luminal surface properties. hiPS-derived endothelial cells seeded on these vessels showed adhesion and alignment, particularly on those decellularized with the high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) method. These cells expressed higher levels of EphrinB2 compared to those cultured on flat surfaces, suggesting they respond to the vessel's topographical features. The results indicate that hiPS-derived endothelial cells can adhere to and orient on decellularized porcine aortas, mimicking arterial endothelial behavior. For translational applications, achieving complete endothelial coverage by hiPSC-derived endothelial cells requires the establishment of optimal culture and seeding conditions. Nevertheless, these results highlight the importance of luminal surface topography and suggest that decellularized vascular tissues and implants can be designed with patterned surfaces to support endothelial behavior.