Biomaterials in cardiovascular research: applications and clinical implications

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Cardiovascular Engineering
• Materials Science

Background:

• Cardiovascular biomaterials (CB) represent a significant area of research and investment.
• Blood compatibility is a critical factor limiting the application of biomaterials in cardiovascular devices.
• Existing CB are broadly categorized into metals, polymers, and biological materials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and classify existing cardiovascular biomaterials.
• To discuss key factors influencing blood compatibility.
• To explore surface modification strategies and emerging trends in cardiovascular biomaterials.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and classification of cardiovascular biomaterials.
• Analysis of blood compatibility factors and surface modification techniques.
• Discussion of current trends, including endothelization and induced human pluripotent stem cells (ihPSCs).

Main Results:

• Cardiovascular biomaterials are categorized into metals, polymers, and biological materials.
• Blood compatibility is influenced by several key factors discussed herein.
• Surface modification strategies are crucial for enhancing biomaterial compatibility.
• Emerging trends include endothelization of cardiac implants and the use of ihPSCs.

Conclusions:

• This review provides a comprehensive overview of cardiovascular biomaterials, their classification, and challenges.
• Surface modification techniques offer promising avenues for improving the performance of cardiovascular devices.
• Future directions involve advanced strategies like endothelization and stem cell integration for enhanced biocompatibility.