Effect of plant extract on the preservation of organ/tissue : an investigation on cell viability and mechanical properties

Abstract

In this study, Aloe Vera extract has been explored as a pharmacologic additive in tissue preservation medium to prolong the “safe” ischemia time. Aortic (AV) and pulmonary (PV) valve leaflets were harvested from freshly procured porcine hearts and then subjected to preservation treatment of different Aloe Vera extract concentrations and ischemic time of 0, 18, and 60 hours. Uniaxial mechanical test and MTT (3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay were performed to assess the mechanical properties and cell viability, respectively. The result showed that the preservation time (P<0.05) has a significant effect on the Failure Strain of AV and the Failure Load of PV, as well as the OD of PV.