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Phosphorylcholine-based polymer coatings for stent drug delivery
A L Lewis1, T A Vick, A C Collias
1Biocompatibles Ltd., Farnham, Surrey, GU9 8QL, UK. andrew_lewis@biocompatibles.co.uk
Journal of Materials Science. Materials in Medicine
|September 7, 2004
Summary
Phosphorylcholine polymers enhance stent biocompatibility and act as effective drug delivery vehicles. Drug release depends on oil/water partition coefficient, not just solubility, with local release up to 28 days post-implantation.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Drug Delivery Systems
Background:
- Phosphorylcholine-based polymers are commercially used to improve coronary stent biocompatibility.
- This study evaluates a specific phosphorylcholine polymer for its potential as a drug delivery vehicle.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize phosphorylcholine polymer membranes.
- To investigate in vitro drug loading and elution from coated stents.
- To assess the in vivo performance of drug-eluting stents.
Main Methods:
- Membrane characterization (water content, molecular weight cut-off).
- Hydrophilic/hydrophobic domain investigation using pyrene.
- In vitro drug loading and elution studies with various drugs.
- In vivo assessment using a radiolabeled angiopeptin analog and autoradiography.
Main Results:
- Drug release rate correlated more closely with the drug's oil/water partition coefficient than its water solubility.
- Hydrophobic drugs interacted with hydrophobic domains within the polymer coating.
- In vivo studies showed local release of angiopeptin to the stented artery wall for up to 28 days.
Conclusions:
- The polymer's hydrophobic domains influence drug release kinetics.
- Phosphorylcholine-coated stents are suitable for localized, sustained drug delivery.
- This technology holds promise for advanced cardiovascular therapies.