Stem-Cell Tracheal Reconstruction in a Canine Model

Abstract

Objectives:

Advance the science of stem-cell based tracheal reconstruction.

Methods:

Tracheal reconstruction is an evolving field with recent success using a stem-cell based ex-vivo engineered trachea. Taking this idea a step further, an in-vivo method requiring less time and fewer procedures would be optimal. We performed a pilot study using 18 rabbits in 2012 at Wake Forest Institute of Regenerative Medicine. The tracheal replacements in the adipose study arm exhibited superior survival when compared to the bone marrow derived stem cell group. In this follow-up study, we performed tracheal replacement in a canine model using 4 experimental animals. We used a segment of fixed, cell-free donor trachea, and stem cells harvested from adipose tissue in the recipient animals. Acellular conduits were seeded with stem cells and implanted.

Results:

The live-animal procedures were successful, with stable oxygenation and vital signs at extubation. The animals were able to demonstrate comfortable and spontaneous respiration and were bright and active for the first post-operative week. They were then euthanized to evaluate the early phase of stem cell survival and differentiation. The complete histologic categorization is ongoing and will be reported.

Conclusions:

We will report the early findings of a single stage stem cell based tracheal replacement—the next evolution of this exciting potential reconstructive option.