Stem Cell-Seeded Composite Grafts for Improved Urethral Tissue Healing
Session Number
2
Advisor(s)
Dr. Arun Sharma, Northwestern University, Stanley Manne Children’s Research Institute
Location
A151
Discipline
Medical and Health Sciences
Start Date
15-4-2026 11:10 AM
End Date
15-4-2026 11:55 AM
Abstract
In order to treat urethral stricture disease, the narrowing of the urethra, substitution urethroplasty procedure has to be completed. The procedure causes a buildup of scar tissue, leading to the blockage returning and increasing the risk for patients with various health issues. A graft, a piece of tissue or plant material that is transplanted from one part of the body or plant to repair the original tissue, was created with two types of stem cells, human bone marrow–derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs). In rats, the graft helped control inflammation and encouraged healing by speeding up the transition from Collegen III to Collegen I, which is more stable. The rats treated had stronger blood vessels, shown by the increased vessel size and density in periurethral tissue. These findings show the potential for stem cell seeded grafts to promote healing and enhance urethral tissue regeneration.
Stem Cell-Seeded Composite Grafts for Improved Urethral Tissue Healing
A151
In order to treat urethral stricture disease, the narrowing of the urethra, substitution urethroplasty procedure has to be completed. The procedure causes a buildup of scar tissue, leading to the blockage returning and increasing the risk for patients with various health issues. A graft, a piece of tissue or plant material that is transplanted from one part of the body or plant to repair the original tissue, was created with two types of stem cells, human bone marrow–derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs). In rats, the graft helped control inflammation and encouraged healing by speeding up the transition from Collegen III to Collegen I, which is more stable. The rats treated had stronger blood vessels, shown by the increased vessel size and density in periurethral tissue. These findings show the potential for stem cell seeded grafts to promote healing and enhance urethral tissue regeneration.