Recellularization of testicular feminization testis in C57bl6 as a natural bioreactor for creation of cellularized seminiferous tubules: an experimental study.

We determined histological aspects of implanted human decellularized testicular matrix (DTM) in C57BL6 as a primitive step for further testis tissue engineering. A total of 4 immature human testicles were obtained after bilateral orchiectomy from patients with testicular feminization syndrome. The optimal decellularization protocol was determined and the efficacy of decellularization was evaluated in two of the testicles. The remaining scaffolds were cut in 3 × 3 mm pieces and implanted between the tight muscles in 32 C57BL6. Biopsies were taken at 2, 4, 8, and 24 weeks postoperatively and stained with PLZF, protamine, and tekt1 markers. Histological examination of DTMs confirmed complete absence of nuclear remnants and preservation of the extracellular matrix. Successful cell seeding was observed in all follow-ups confirmed by H&E and IHC staining that increased continuously during the whole study. Interestingly, spermatogonial stem-like cells were observed on decellularized implants that were well differentiated during the follow-ups. Natural bioreactors may provide a good cell source for testes tissue regeneration. This technique may provide testis bioscaffold as a three-dimensional platform and further successful cell seeding to produce a functional testis. This novel technique may be beneficial for patients who require testicular supplementation.