Novel application and serial evaluation of tissue-engineered portal vein grafts in a murine model

Aim: Surgical management of pediatric extrahepatic portal vein obstruction requires meso-Rex bypass using autologous or synthetic grafts. Tissue-engineered vascular grafts (TEVGs) provide an alternative, but no validated animal models using portal TEVGs exist. Herein, we preclinically assess TEVGs as portal vein bypass grafts. Materials & methods: TEVGs were implanted as portal vein interposition conduits in SCID-beige mice, monitored by ultrasound and micro-computed tomography, and histologically assessed postmortem at 12 months. Results: TEVGs remained patent for 12 months. Histologic analysis demonstrated formation of neovessels that resembled native portal veins, with similar content of smooth muscle cells, collagen type III and elastin. Conclusion: TEVGs are feasible portal vein conduits in a murine model. Further preclinical evaluation of TEVGs may facilitate pediatric clinical translation.