Rapid and Efficient Combined Decellularization with Physical, Chemical and Enzymatic Treatment for Production of Bovine-Derived Meniscal Implant to Replace Damaged Meniscus.

Abstract

Background: Xenogeneic menisci offer a promising biomaterial with high biocompatibility, closely resembling the native meniscus. However, to enable clinical application in humans, decellularization is essential to remove cellular components that may trigger graft rejection.

Method: We developed a combined decellularization protocol for bovine-derived meniscus tissue, integrating physical stimulation (sonication and vacuum), chemical treatments (hypotonic and hypertonic solutions, and sodium dodecyl sulfate [SDS]), and enzymatic digestion (trypsin and nucleases). The decellularization efficiency was confirmed not only by DNA reduction rate, but also by residual DNA, DNA fragmentation and histology. Subsequently, cytotoxicity, biocompatibility, and mechanical properties were assessed.

Results: This combined decellularization achieved a DNA removal efficiency of up to 94.94%, enabled rapid decellularization within 5 days, and preserved collagen content, resulting in a high-quality xeno meniscal implant (XMI).

Conclusion: The XMI produced through this combined decellularization process demonstrates strong potential as a scaffold for the treatment of meniscal injuries.