Date of Publication

4-2025

Document Type

Bachelor's Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Biology major in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology

Subject Categories

Molecular, Cellular, and Tissue Engineering

College

College of Science

Department/Unit

Biology

Thesis Advisor

John Martin S. Mondragon

Defense Panel Chair

Mariquit M. Delos Reyes

Defense Panel Member

Gerard Anthony M. Espiritu
Tosha Mae S. Manalastas

Abstract/Summary

Decellularization hinges on two fundamental, often conflicting, priorities: complete cell removal and the preservation of extracellular matrix (ECM) structure and components. While ionic and nonionic detergents are frequently employed for efficient cell removal, they can compromise ECM structure and leave cytotoxic residues. This study presents a detergent-free, sonication-assisted approach to decellularization, aiming to balance effective cell removal with the preservation of ECM integrity. Epidermis were subjected to alternating hypertonic and hypotonic solutions, along with sonication at 60 W, 120 W, and 180 W in a bath-type sonicator. Results revealed that lower sonication power (60 W) was more effective in decellularizing porcine skin, demonstrating 84.54% reduction in cellular debris, compared to 25.76% and 70.71% reductions for 120 W and 180 W, respectively, as it maintained a favorable balance between cellular disruption and ECM preservation. Hematoxylin and eosin staining results indicated that excessive sonication intensity led to significant ECM damage, resulting in a denser matrix that retained cellular debris. Moreover, Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier-Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR) Spectroscopy revealed characteristic amide-associated bands indicating protein and collagen presence, with treated samples exhibiting increased transmittance, suggesting alterations in functional group concentration and protein structure. Although increasing sonication power enhanced cellular disruption, it also induced excessive cavitation, which compromised ECM integrity. This study demonstrates the potential of a novel, detergent-free decellularization method that effectively removes cells while preserving the structural integrity of the extracellular matrix, offering significant advancements in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

Abstract Format

html

Language

English

Format

Electronic

Keywords

Sonication; Tissue engineering

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Embargo Period

4-13-2026

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Available for download on Monday, April 13, 2026

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