Fig. 7
Implantation summary: vascularization and angiogenesis representative images of tissue cross sections (A) without implants and of Seaweed Cellulose (SC). (B) Ulva sp. porous implant and (C) Cladophora sp. fibrous implant, stained with Hematoxylin–Eosin (H&E), Masson’s Trichrome (MT), and Anti-CD31/PECAM-1 (CD31), close-up view (X40), for the evaluation of vascularization and angiogenesis, representative view of implants’ center ROI, after 8 weeks of implantation. Imaging of both SC implant sites (B,C) show the presence of blood cells (H&E, red; MT, yellow) and endothelial cells (CD31, brown; MT, dark pink), confirming angiogenesis process with multiple blood vessels developments within both implant sites. Additionally, (D) scaffolds before implantation (t = 0) and (E) implants with tissue resections at week 8 post implantation (t = 8), reveal scaffolds structural stability obtaining original diameter (Ø = 8 mm) with no deformation or degradability post implantation, as well as animal positive response. The implanted SC scaffolds are pink with no discoloration and show no visual sign of inflammation or edemas. The implants were soft and appears to be well integrated with the host’s tissues, confirming a healthy tissue. *Scale Bars: (HE, MT) = 100 μm, (CD31) = 50 μm.
