Methods and compositions for organ decellularization

Abstract

The invention is directed to methods for producing a decellularized organ or part of an organ. A decellularized organ is produced using an isolated organ mechanically agitated to remove cellular membranes surrounding the isolated organ without destroying the interstitial structure of the organ. After the cellular membrane is removed, the isolated organ is exposed to a solubilizing fluid that extracts cellular material without dissolving the interstitial structure of the organ. A washing fluid is used to remove the solubilized components, leaving behind a decellularized organ.

What is claimed is:  
     
         1 . A solubilizing fluid for tissue decellularization comprising: 
 an alkaline solution selected from the group consisting of sulphates, acetates, carbonates, bicarbonates, hydroxides, ammonium salts and combinations thereof; and    a non-ionic detergent wherein the concentration of detergent is in the range of about 0.006% (w/v) to 2.0% (w/v).    
     
     
         2 . The composition of matter of  claim 1 , wherein the non-ionic detergent is selected from the group consisting of Triton X-100, Triton N-101, Triton X-114, Triton X-405, Triton X-705, and Triton DF-16, monolaurate (Tween 20), monopalmitate (Tween 40), monooleate (Tween 80), polyoxethylene-23-lauryl ether (Brij 35), polyoxyethylene ether W-1 (Polyox), sodium cholate, deoxycholates, CHAPS, saponin, n-Decyl β-D-glucopuranoside, n-heptyl β-D glucopyranoside, n-Octyl α-D-glucopyranoside, Nonidet P-40, and combinations thereof.  
     
     
         3 . The composition of matter of  claim 1 , wherein the alkaline solution comprises ammonium hydroxide and the detergent comprises Triton X-100.