Decellularized Omentum Matrix Fat Extraction

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing methods for decellularizing omentum for tissue engineering applications are limited due to the difficulty in effectively removing fat, which is essential for vascular extracellular matrix components necessary for angiogenesis and tissue viability.

Innovation Solution

A method involving dehydration, mechanical compression under increased temperature and pressure, followed by solvent extraction to remove greater than 50% of the fat from omentum, resulting in a defatted omentum with less than 5% fat, while optionally decellularizing, disinfecting, and sterilizing the tissue.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional decellularization methods are used on omentum, then cellular components are removed, but fat cannot be effectively extracted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedecellularization effectivenessVSAvoidfat removal efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The decellularization process is segmented into distinct stages: initial decellularization using detergents, followed by separate fat extraction stages using organic solvents. This segmentation allows each process to be optimized independently, achieving both effective cell removal and fat extraction without compromising either function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies extraction principles by using organic solvents (such as ethanol, acetone, or chloroform) to selectively extract fat from the decellularized omentum. The solvents penetrate the tissue matrix and dissolve lipids, which are then removed through filtration or centrifugation, achieving effective fat removal while preserving the extracellular matrix structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Adaptability or versatility

If omentum is used for tissue engineering, then vascular extracellular matrix components are needed for angiogenesis, but fat interferes with this function

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevascularization capabilityVSAvoidfat interference
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent converts the harmful effect of fat by systematically removing it through multiple extraction stages, transforming the omentum from a fat-containing tissue into a purified vascular extracellular matrix scaffold. The removed fat is discarded, while the remaining matrix is enriched with vascular components that promote angiogenesis, effectively converting a defective material into a beneficial tissue engineering scaffold.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

3Manufacturing precision

If multiple processing steps are applied to remove fat and decellularize omentum, then purification is improved, but process complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetissue purification levelVSAvoidprocessing procedure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by performing decellularization before fat extraction. By removing cellular components first using detergents and enzymes, the tissue structure is prepared to facilitate subsequent fat extraction. This preliminary step simplifies the overall process by preventing cellular debris from interfering with fat removal and by creating a more accessible matrix for solvent penetration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent maintains continuity of useful action by using a sequential process where each step builds on the previous one: decellularization creates pores and channels that enhance fat extraction efficiency, and the progressive removal of both cells and fat continuously improves the quality of the final scaffold without requiring repeated cycles of the same process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This approach effectively prepares a vascularized decellularized omentum that can serve as a substrate for neovascularization, enhancing tissue ingrowth and viability in regenerative medicine applications.

Implementation Method 1

The omentum is dehydrated by lyophilization

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLyophilization: Freeze Drying

Implementation Method 2

The defatted omentum is sterilized by ionizing radiation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectIonizing radiation sterilization: Radiation

Data Source

PatentUS8936651B2Decellularized omentum matrix and uses thereof
Publication Date: 2015.01.20 ETHICON INC
  • US8936651B2 patent drawing
  • US8936651B2 patent drawing
  • US8936651B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods for defatting omentum and processes for preparing an acellular omentum, i.e., devitalized or decellularized omentum, comprising extracellular matrix for implantation into a mammalian system. Constructs for medical applications comprising decellularized omentum are also described. More specifically, mesh reinforced omentum biomatrix for soft tissue repair is described.