FIG. 7.

Tri-cell-seeded scaffolds in vitro. (A) Scaffold 2 hours after seeding showing fluorescently labeled (CM-DiI) cardiomyocytes (NRVCs) seeded in microchannels (white arrows), 5× magnification. Histological analysis of 8 day samples cut in cross-sectional (B, D, E) and longitudinal section (C, F–I). (B, C) H&E staining showing viable cells within construct channels (black arrows), scale bars=100 μm (50 μm in insets). (D) NRVCs (MF-20, sarcomeric myosin) and (E) endothelial cells (RECA-1) colocalized within channels (representative channels shown by black and red arrows), scale bars=100 μm (50 μm in insets). (E, F) Endothelial cells formed lumen structures within channels (black arrows), scale bar in (F)=50 μm. Fluorescent double staining with (G) desmin and (H) CD31 confirming cardiomyocytes and endothelial cells are colocalized and elongated within scaffold channels (channel walls outlined with dotted lines, fibrin material is autofluorescent). (I) Merged images with DAPI nuclear stain. Scale bars in (G–I)=50 μm. Color images available online at www.liebertpub.com/tea