Decellularization Techniques for Preparation of Decellularized Extracellular Matrices in Tissue Engineering Applications

Abstract Decellularized extracellular matrix (ECM) scaffolds have been broadly used in tissue engineering because of their versatile bioactive nature and biomimetic properties. The ECM can be derived from various tissues, organs and cultured cells. A variety of decellularization methods have been developed to maximize the decellularization effect while minimizing the effect on ECM structures and compositions. The methods can be categorized into chemical, biological, and physical methods and their combinations. The properties and applications of ECM scaffolds are dependent on decellularization methods. This article summarizes the decellularization methods for preparation of decellularized ECM scaffolds for tissue engineering applications.