Bioscaffolds composed of extracellular matrix (ECM) have been used for the repair of a variety of tissues often leading to tissue-specific constructive remodeling [1]. ECM scaffolds are typically prepared by decellularization of tissues and are composed of the structural proteins (e.g. collagen) and functional proteins (e.g. growth factors) that characterize the native ECM. However, for certain applications, the use of ECM scaffolds can be limited by the native two-dimensional sheet form in which they are harvested. The current trend towards minimally invasive, outpatient based surgical procedures has prompted the development of injectable biomaterials. Injectable scaffolds can be used in combination with endoscopic, laparoscopic, and video assisted techniques to deliver bioactive proteins and/or cells, or bulking agents to target tissues. An injectable form of the ECM could be delivered using minimally invasive techniques minimizing trauma during implantation. The objective of the present study was to derive ECM gels from three different porcine tissues and to characterize the rheological properties of the gel forms. ECM scaffolds of interest include small intestinal submucosa (SIS), urinary bladder matrix (UBM), and liver stroma (LS).
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