Tissue engineering is a technique that uses cells, biomaterials, and/or other factors to improve or restore tissue function. Decellularized matrix scaffolds can increase cellular attachment sites, promoting adhesion, proliferation, differentiation, and other physiological processes. This study aimed to decellularize sheep ureter tissue, evaluate the interaction of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AD-MSCs) with the scaffold, and investigate cell survival on the decellularized sheep ureter scaffold.

Sheep ureter tissue samples were initially divided into 1 × 1 cm squares for decellularization. The decellularization was performed using a chemical method. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, DAPI staining, and Masson's trichrome staining were used to confirm decellularization and assess tissue composition. DNA extraction tests were performed on decellularized scaffolds and control tissues, and glycosaminoglycan (GAG) content and total protein amounts were measured. AD-MSCs were cultured on the scaffolds, and MTT assays and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging were conducted to evaluate cell viability and adhesion to the decellularized scaffolds.

The data collected from this study demonstrated that cellular content was effectively removed in the scaffolds created through the intended decellularization approach, the components of the extracellular matrix (ECM) were preserved, and there was no major degradation observed in the ECM.

As a result, decellularized sheep ureter scaffolds are suitable for supporting cell proliferation and may serve as promising candidates for tissue engineering applications due to their biocompatibility.

Biocompatible scaffolds play a crucial role in tissue regeneration. This study decellularized sheep ureter tissue and evaluated its interaction with adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AD-MSCs). The preserved extracellular matrix and favorable cellular response highlight the potential of these scaffolds for tissue engineering applications.