Preparation and characterization of acellular membrane from yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares) skin for skin regeneration

Full-thickness skin wounds pose a considerable clinical challenge because of the limited capacity for self-regeneration. Acellular materials derived from animals offer a promising solution to this issue. In the present investigation, an acellular scaffold is prepared from yellowfin tuna skin (Thunnus albacares) for skin regeneration application by comparing the efficacy of three chemical decellularization agents: sodium hydroxide (NaOH), Triton X-100 (TT), and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS). The impact of these agents on the resulting acellular dermal matrices was evaluated by assessing collagen preservation, DNA removal, residual fat and ash content, and structural integrity using hydroxyproline assay and chemical composition analysis. Mechanical properties, swelling behavior, degradation rate, water vapor transmission rate, moisture loss, and biocompatibility of the acellular membrane were also characterized. Furthermore, the regenerative potential of these samples was assessed in a porcine full-thickness skin defect model. The results demonstrated that all three decellularization methods effectively removed cellular components, with varying degrees of collagen preservation and ECM structural alteration. TT treatment yielded the highest collagen retention and a relatively intact fibrous structure, while NaOH caused significant structural damage. Mechanical testing revealed that hydration significantly improved the elasticity of TT- and SDS-treated samples. In vitro biocompatibility assays showed no significant cytotoxicity or hemolysis. These findings suggest that the acellular membrane holds promise as a biomaterial for skin regeneration applications due to its effective decellularization, preserved collagen structure, and favorable biocompatibility.

Graphical Abstract