Targeted imaging of matrix metalloproteinase activity in the evaluation of remodeling tissue-engineered vascular grafts implanted in a growing lamb model

摘要

Objectives: The clinical translation of tissue-engineered vascular grafts has been demonstrated in children. The remodeling of biodegradable, cell-seeded scaffolds to functional neovessels has been partially attributed to matrix metalloproteinases. Noninvasive assessment of matrix metalloproteinase activity can indicate graft remodeling and elucidate the progression of neovessel formation. Therefore, matrix metalloproteinase activity was evaluated in grafts implanted in lambs using in vivo and ex vivo hybrid imaging. Graft growth and remodeling was quantified using in vivo x-ray computed tomography angiography.