# New frontiers in porcine atrioventricular node decellularization: preserving extracellular matrix architecture for biological scaffolds

## TL;DR

Researchers created biological scaffolds from pig heart tissue that could be used to make better pacemakers by preserving the structure and support of the original tissue.

## Contribution

A novel Tergitol-based decellularization method was developed to preserve the extracellular matrix of porcine atrioventricular nodes.

## Key findings

- The decellularization process preserved the three-dimensional structure and collagen content of the tissue.
- Key ECM features essential for pacemaker tissue support were maintained after decellularization.
- The scaffold is suitable for future applications in tissue-engineered cardiac scaffolds.

## Abstract

Cardiac implantable electronic devices manage arrhythmias but are limited by mechanical failures, infection risks, and poor long-term biocompatibility. Developing a biological alternative that restores intrinsic pacemaking remains a key clinical challenge.

We developed cardiac scaffolds from porcine atrioventricular nodes using an optimized Tergitol-based decellularization protocol. Morphological, ultrastructural, proteomic, and mechanical analyses were conducted to assess ECM integrity and preservation of native architecture.

The decellularization process effectively removed cellular and nuclear components while preserving three-dimensional structure, collagen content, and overall ECM organization. Analyses confirmed that key features essential for pacemaker tissue support were maintained.

Our findings demonstrate that the scaffold retains native characteristics suitable for biologically inspired pacemaker applications. This work provides a foundation for ECM-derived hydrogel development, cytocompatibility testing, and integration with cardiomyocytes in next-generation tissue-engineered cardiac scaffolds.