(P 9) A New Scaffold Based on Globular Proteins of Plasma

Introduction: Several different materials have been employed as scaffolds in Tissue Engineering. In this work we describe the development, in vitro studies and preliminary results of grafting a new scaffold based on globular proteins of plasma. Material and Methods: The scaffold was based on the mixture of plasma globular proteins (albumin) and a crosslinking agent (glutaraldehyde). Albumin was obtained from concentrates and directly from plasma or serum. The resulting mixture was frozen, lyophilised and hydrated. The behaviour of this new scaffold was studied in vitro by culturing several mesenchymal cell lines and in vivo by experimental grafting. Results: The structure obtained after lyophilization and hydratation was porous and flexible with pores and septa of different thickness depending on albumin concentration. The scaffold was not toxic for the cells, which were able to take on the surface and express differentiation markers (type II collagen, oil red, Von Kossa...). In vitro, the scaffold was not degraded by the cultured cells. After grafting the scaffold without cells, a progressive degradation without inflammatory reaction was observed. After 3-4 months, the scaffold was completely degraded. When the scaffold was grafted with differentiated chondrocytes, a complete cartilage structure was observed. When the scaffold was grafted with adipocytes, a fat tissue surrounding the scaffold was observed. Conclusions: Albumin based scaffolds are non-toxic and well-tolerated. Cells are able to adhere and differentiate. This scaffold is easy to obtain, can be used to regenerate mesenchymal tissues and represent a new alternative to other materials for tissue engineering techniques.