Perfusable cellulose channels from decellularized leaf scaffolds for modeling vascular amyloidosis

Amyloid infiltration in blood vessels damages them and spreads amyloid to surrounding tissues. Research on amyloid flow and deposition in capillaries is limited due to the lack of suitable models. In this study, we created a decellularized leaf scaffold (DCLS) mimicking complex capillary structures to study vascular amyloidosis. Fluorescent molecules (e.g., Nile red) confirmed the intact cellulose framework of the DCLS. Additionally, DCLS with colorimetric nanoparticles (e.g., polyaniline nanoparticles) showed reversible color changes with pH variations, indicating preserved pore structure. The DCLS's responsiveness and preserved vein structures demonstrate its similarity to human vasculature. Hen egg-white lysozyme amyloid deposition was observed in various areas of the DCLS after perfusion. An amyloid-degrading agent (e.g., trypsin) was then perfused, showing a reduction of 18.3 % after 90 min and 25.5 % after 180 min. This DCLS model offers a more realistic and physiologically meaningful platform for studying intravascular amyloid accumulation and clearance than existing in vitro vascular models.