15502-m-pleumeekers

Supplementary figure 1. Optimization of the decellularization protocol for ear cartilage. The protocol of Kheir et al. [101] was optimized by the incorporation of a low dose elastase to specifically decellularize full thickness ear cartilage, since decellularization outcome was not satisfactory as cell remnants remained clearly visible on histological examination (haematoxylin and eosin stain). A high concentration of elastase (3 U/mL) resulted in complete disruption of the matrix and complete removal of cell remnants. A low concentration elastase (0.03 U/mL) preserved the matrix to a greater extent, while allowing for a clear reduction in cell remnants. Supplementary figure 2. Matrix integrity and mechanical properties of bovine articular cartilage scaffolds. Bovine articular cartilage samples were decellularized and included as controls to compare decellularization outcome. (A) sGAG content reduced while collagen content was retained. Histological images are representative for all donors. Saf-O = Safranin-O ; Coll-II = collagen type II (counterstained with haematoxylin). (B) Equilibrium modulus after decellularization. Data shown as mean ± SD for 3 donors, 6 samples per donor. 145 DECELLULARIZED CARTILAGE: AN ECM-DERIVED SCAFFOLD 7