Gelatin methacryloyl is a slow degrading material allowing vascularization and long-term use in vivo

Abstract In situ tissue engineering is an emerging field aiming at the generation of ready-to-use three-dimensional tissues. One solution to supply a proper vascularization of larger tissues to provide oxygen and nutrients is the arteriovenous loop (AVL) model. However, for this model, suitable scaffold materials are needed that are biocompatible/non-immunogenic, slowly degradable, and allow vascularization. Here, we investigate the suitability of the known gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA)-based hydrogel for in-situ tissue engineering utilizing the AVL model. Rat AVLs are embedded by two layers of GelMA hydrogel in an inert PTFE chamber and implanted in the groin. Constructs were explanted after 2 or 4 weeks and analyzed. For this purpose, gross morphological, histological, and multiphoton microscopic analysis were performed. Immune response was analyzed based on anti-CD68 and anti-CD163 staining of immune cells. The occurrence of matrix degradation was assayed by anti-MMP3 staining. Vascularization was analyzed by anti- α -smooth muscle actin staining, multiphoton microscopy, as well as expression analysis of 53 angiogenesis-related proteins utilizing a proteome profiler angiogenesis array kit. Here we show that GelMA hydrogels are stable for at least 4 weeks in the rat AVL model. Furthermore, our data indicate that GelMA hydrogels are biocompatible. Finally, we provide evidence that GelMA hydrogels in the AVL model allow connective tissue formation, as well as vascularization, introducing multiphoton microscopy as a new methodology to visualize neovessel formation originating from the AVL. GelMA is a suitable material for in situ and in vivo TE in the AVL model.