The role of DAMPs in the host immune and remodeling response to xenogeneic biologic scaffold materials (141.27)

Abstract

Abstract Biologic scaffolds composed of extracellular matrix (ECM) have been used in pre-clinical and clinical applications with few reports of adverse immunologic reactions. Following implantation, ECM scaffolds are readily remodeled by the host; however, the mechanisms underlying the host immune and remodeling responses are not fully understood. A variety of molecules within ECM scaffolds, as well as their degradation products, have been shown to influence the host response. Damage associated molecular pattern molecules (DAMPs) are released during non-apoptotic cell death, and may act as either pro- or anti-inflammatory mediators. Consequently, the presence of DAMPs within a biologic scaffold material may direct the host immune and remodeling responses following implantation. In the present study, the presence of several well-established DAMPs within ECM scaffold materials was evaluated. In addition, the presence of DNA and the redox state of the scaffold microenvironment, which may influence the inflammatory potential of DAMPs, were assessed to determine their effects upon host immune and remodeling responses. The results of the present study demonstrate the complex nature of the interactions between the host immune response, local microenvironment, and tissue remodeling, following the implantation of biologic scaffold materials.