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BSP-2
(P)
NOVEL FULLY AUTOLOGOUS TISSUE ENGINEERED URINARY BLADDER MODEL
Stephane BOLDUC, Hazem ORABI, Alexandre ROUSSEAU and Veronique LATERREUR
CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Surgery, Quebec, CANADA
PURPOSE
Although numerous models for urinary bladder exist, in vitro bladder model is needed for tissue replacement, disease
modeling and drug testing. Self-assembly method of matrix formation using bladder stromal cells would obviate the
need for using non-native tissues or exogenous materials. In this study, we aimed at creating an ex-vivo urinary bladder
model obtained from the different cell types of urinary bladder.
MATERIAL AND METHODS
Urothelial, stromal and smooth muscle cells (SMC) were isolated from bladder biopsies using enzymatic methods.
Bladder stromal cells were stimulated to form collagen sheets under influence of Ascorbic acid for 4 weeks. Following
this, SMC and urothelial cells were sequentially seeded for another 4 weeks. Bladder equivalents were collected for
histological and functional studies. They were assessed for cell identification, proliferation and morphology, and for
tissue architecture and characteristics. Permeability test with standard Franz diffusion was done to assess the function.
RESULTS
Bladder stromal cells formed collagen sheets that could be handled easily. Urothelial cells constituted a well-
differentiated epithelial layer confirmed by positive staining for pancytokeratins. Markers for impermeability including
uroplakins and ZO-1 were detected. A well-formed basement membrane was identified with Laminin and collagen IV.
SMC markers were positive for smooth muscle actin and Calponin. Permeability test for bladder equivalents were similar
to native tissues.
CONCLUSIONS
Using the self-assembly, in vitro bladder model was created with many functional and biological similarities with native
bladder tissue without any foreign material. It is suitable for bladder substitution and experimental research.