Author Description

Decellularized collagenous biomaterials have become critical components in the development of effective new medical therapies because of inherent low antigenicity and their ability to integrate with surrounding tissue. Decellularization of tissues or organs can be done traditionally by physical, chemical (ionic, non-ionic and zwitterionic detergents) and enzymatic methods. We developed a protocol for decellularization of dermis and fish swim bladder using aquous extract of fruit pericarp of Sapindus mukorossi. Best of our knowledge, no literature is available regarding the use of this plant extract for decellularization of tissues. Following decellularization, all residual chemicals must be removed to avoid an adverse host tissue response. However, present procedure does not require final washing because the plant extract is non toxic and has antibacterial and antifungal properties. This book provides the herbal techniques for decellularization and detailed procedure for determination of biocompatibility of acellular scaffolds. These scaffolds can be used in burn cases, herniorrhaphy and reconstructive surgery without the use of antimicrobial and antifungal medication.