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Quantifying the Mechanical Properties of the Endothelial Glycocalyx with Atomic Force Microscopy
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Role of endothelial glycocalyx in sliding friction at the catheter-blood vessel interface

Chengxiong Lin1,2, Hans J Kaper1, Wei Li2

  • 1Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Groningen and University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.

Scientific Reports
|July 18, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Catheter stiffness and endothelial glycocalyx layer (EGL) degradation significantly increase friction during cardiovascular procedures. Understanding these factors is crucial for improving catheterization safety and preventing vessel damage.

Area of Science:

  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Cardiovascular Research
  • Tribology

Background:

  • The endothelial glycocalyx layer (EGL) is vital for vascular function, influencing permeability and hemodynamics.
  • The role of EGL in catheter-blood vessel friction remains unexplored.
  • Catheterization is a common procedure for diagnosing and treating cardiovascular diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the impact of catheter properties and EGL integrity on friction during simulated catheterization.
  • To identify key factors influencing the coefficient of friction (COF) and energy dissipation at the aorta-catheter interface.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized a porcine aorta model to simulate blood vessel conditions.
  • Employed a catheter loop in a reciprocating sliding motion against the aorta.
  • Manipulated catheter stiffness, normal load, sliding speed, and induced EGL degradation using trypsin treatment.

Main Results:

  • Decreased catheter stiffness and EGL degradation significantly increased COF and frictional energy dissipation.
  • Increased sliding speed led to higher COF and energy dissipation.
  • Normal load initially decreased COF and energy dissipation before increasing it.

Conclusions:

  • Catheter stiffness and EGL integrity are critical determinants of friction during catheterization.
  • Findings provide essential data for enhancing catheter safety and managing potential vessel damage, particularly in patients with compromised EGL.

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