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Fucoidan functionalization on poly(vinyl alcohol) hydrogels for improved endothelialization and hemocompatibility
Yuan Yao1, Aung Moe Zaw1, Deirdre E J Anderson2
1Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada.
Biomaterials
|April 19, 2020
Summary
Modifying poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) vascular grafts with fucoidan significantly improves endothelialization and reduces thrombosis, enhancing graft performance. This innovation offers a promising solution for small diameter vascular graft occlusion, improving blood vessel repair outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Vascular Surgery
- Polymer Chemistry
Background:
- Small diameter vascular grafts face occlusion from thrombosis and intimal hyperplasia.
- Poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) hydrogels offer tunable mechanics and low thrombogenicity but lack cell adhesion properties.
- Surface modification is crucial for enhancing endothelialization of PVA grafts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To modify PVA with fucoidan to improve endothelial cell adhesion and antithrombotic properties for vascular graft applications.
- To evaluate the mechanical properties, biocompatibility, and in vivo performance of fucoidan-modified PVA grafts.
Main Methods:
- Fucoidan was mixed with PVA and co-crosslinked using sodium trimetaphosphate (STMP).
- In vitro, ex-vivo, and in vivo studies were conducted to assess endothelial cell adhesion, platelet interaction, thrombin generation, and graft patency in rabbits.
- Gamma sterilization compatibility was confirmed.
Main Results:
- Fucoidan modification significantly enhanced endothelial cell adhesion and monolayer function.
- Reduced platelet adhesion, activation, and thrombin generation were observed in vitro and ex-vivo.
- In vivo studies in rabbits showed increased graft patency, improved endothelialization, and decreased intimal hyperplasia.
Conclusions:
- Fucoidan modification of PVA enhances its suitability as a small diameter vascular graft material.
- The modified PVA exhibits improved hemocompatibility and promotes better graft healing.
- This approach offers a viable strategy for developing advanced vascular grafts and other blood-contacting biomaterials.
