Tissue Matrix Localized Modification for Variable Properties
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Solution Overview
Problem
Tissue-derived products often have uniform mechanical and biological properties, which may not be suitable for specific surgical applications requiring variable properties to enhance performance and regeneration.
Innovation Solution
Methods for localized modification of tissue matrices by cross-linking or treating with proteolytic enzymes to create regions with varying mechanical and biological properties, using devices with channels for targeted application of cross-linking agents or enzymes, such as glutaraldehyde and bromelain, to create flexible sheets with specific patterns of modification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If tissue products are produced with uniform mechanical and biological properties, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to specific surgical applications is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating tissue products with spatially varying mechanical and biological properties through localized cross-linking and proteolytic treatment. Different regions of the tissue matrix are treated with different concentrations of cross-linking agents or proteolytic enzymes to achieve desired property gradients, allowing customization for specific surgical applications while maintaining a relatively simple overall manufacturing process using channel-based fluid delivery devices
2Strength
If cross-linking agents are applied uniformly across the tissue matrix, then mechanical strength is maximized, but tissue regeneration capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by applying cross-linking agents locally to specific regions of the tissue matrix rather than uniformly. Areas requiring high mechanical strength receive greater cross-linking treatment, while areas needing tissue regeneration maintain lower cross-linking density to preserve porosity and facilitate cell infiltration and tissue in-growth
Solution Approach 2:
The tissue matrix is segmented into different functional zones with varying cross-linking densities. The channel-based delivery system enables segmentation of the treatment process, allowing different regions to receive tailored concentrations of cross-linking agents and proteolytic enzymes to achieve optimal balance between strength and regeneration
3Ease of operation
If proteolytic enzymes are used to increase pliability, then ease of surgical handling is improved, but structural integrity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies proteolytic enzymes locally to specific regions of the tissue matrix to create pliable zones that facilitate surgical handling, while preserving structural integrity in load-bearing areas through controlled enzyme concentration and exposure time. The channel-based delivery system enables precise spatial control of enzymatic treatment
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
The methods allow for the production of tissue products with variable mechanical and biological properties, enhancing their ability to provide mechanical support, control degradation, and facilitate tissue regeneration and in-growth, while minimizing adverse effects like fibrosis or scar formation.
Implementation Method 1
cross-linking select portions of the tissue matrix to produce a tissue matrix having mechanical or biological properties that vary across the tissue matrix
Implementation Method 2
contacting select portions of the tissue matrix with a proteolytic enzyme to produce a tissue matrix having mechanical properties that vary across the tissue matrix
Data Source
AI summary
Methods for treating tissue matrices and tissue matrices produced according to the methods are provided. The methods can include treating select portions of a tissue matrix with a cross-linking agent and/or a proteolytic enzyme to produce a tissue matrix with variable mechanical and/or biological properties.