1 of the major obstacles in tissue engineering of thick, complex tissues (such as the heart and the liver) is the need to vascularize the tissue in vitro. Vascularization in vitro could restore cells viability during growth of the tissue, induce structural organization and promote integration upon implantation. Embryonic stem (ES) cells have the capability to differentiate and form blood vessels de novo in a process called vasculogenesis. We have shown that human ES (hES) cells can differentiate into endothelial cells (ECs) forming vascular-like structures when formation of embryoid bodies is induced and that these cells can be isolated and grown in culture. We hypothesize that the vasculogenic potential of hES-derived endothelial progenitors can be used to induce vascularization in engineered human tissue. Our goal will be to induce vasculogenesis in engineered tissue constructs grown on three dimensional (3D) polymer scaffolds. We will use co culture systems of embryonic endothelial and cardiac cells cultured on biodegradable polymer scaffolds designed to meet cellular and mechanical properties needed for a cardiac patch. The vascularized constructs will be implanted and examined for integration with the host vasculature. We hypothesize that the vessel network created in vitro will promote the vascularization of the tissue in vivo.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Type
Research Project (R01)
Project #
5R01HL060435-08
Application #
7198117
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG1-CDD (01))
Program Officer
Lundberg, Martha
Project Start
1998-07-10
Project End
2009-02-28
Budget Start
2007-03-01
Budget End
2008-02-28
Support Year
8
Fiscal Year
2007
Total Cost
$335,884
Indirect Cost
Name
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Department
Engineering (All Types)
Type
Schools of Engineering
DUNS #
001425594
City
Cambridge
State
MA
Country
United States
Zip Code
02139
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