Repopulation of decellularized whole organ scaffold using stem cells: an emerging technology for the development of neo-organ

Demand of donor organs for transplantation in treatment of organ failure is increasing. Hence there is a need to develop new strategies for the alternative sources of organ development. Attempts are being made to use xenogenic organs by genetic manipulation but the organ rejection against human always has been a major challenge for the survival of the graft. Advancement in the genetic bioengineering and combination of different allied sciences for the development of humanized organ system, the therapeutic influence of stem cell fraction on the reconstitution of organ architecture and their regenerative abilities in different tissues and organs provides a better approach to solve the problem of organ shortage. However, the available strategies for generating the organ/tissue scaffolds limit its application due to the absence of complete three-dimensional (3D) organ architecture, mechanical strength, long-term cell survival, and vascularization. Repopulation of whole decellularized organ scaffolds using stem cells has added a new dimension for creating new bioengineered organs. In recent years, several studies have demonstrated the potential application of decellularization and recellularization approach for the development of functional bio-artificial organs. With the help of established procedures for conditioning, extensive stem cells and organ engineering experiments/transplants for the development of humanized organs will allow its preclinical evaluation for organ regeneration before translation to the clinic. This review focuses on the major aspects of organ scaffold generation and repopulation of different types of whole decellularized organ scaffolds using stem cells for the functional benefit and their confines.