Fig. 2

Visual characterization of decellularized blood vessel scaffolds. Various microscopic and histological staining techniques were employed to compare the following characteristics between five experimental decellularized scaffolds and fresh vascular controls. (1–6) Scanning electron micrographs (SEM) showing the external surface appearances (magnification, ×2000) and (7–12) the luminal surface appearances of the scaffolds (magnification, ×2000); (13–18) hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining (magnification, ×400) and (19–24) DAPI staining (magnification, ×200) showing cross-sections of the scaffolds and the presence of nuclear residue; (25–30) Masson’s trichrome staining results (magnification, ×400) and (31–36) Picrosirius red staining showing the structures of the pores and collagen fibers in the matrices of the scaffolds (magnification, ×400)