Decellularized inner body membranes for tissue engineering: a review

Body membranes are thin sheets/layers of cells or tissues which cover the surface of internal organs, the outside of the body and lines various body cavities. These membranes are separated into two main groups which are epithelial membranes and connective tissue membranes. Decellularized forms of inner body membranes in the groups of epithelial membranes (amniotic membrane, mesentery, omentum, pericardium, peritoneum, pleura) and connective tissue membranes (fascia, periosteum, synovial membrane) have been used in tissue engineering studies for preparation and regeneration of various tissues such as bone, tendon, cartilage, skin, cornea, ocular surface, uterine, periodontium, vascular and cardiovascular structures. Decellularized inner body membranes have high biocompatibility and support cell attachment, cell growth and angiogenesis which are desired properties for using as versatile tools in tissue engineering applications. Even though, decellularized forms of these membranes have been used in many studies, it is necessary to develop new decellularization methods for more effective cell removal and less destructive properties on tissue structures. Moreover, development of decellularization agents which target removal of antigens of donor tissues is also essential because these antigens are one of the main reasons for tissue-organ rejections in allogeneic and xenogeneic tissue-organ implantations. This review provides comprehensive information and analysis about the current state of the art in the literature on decellularized inner body membranes and applications of these membranes in tissue engineering.