Collagen-Sealed Polyester Vascular Prostheses Functionalized by Polycatecholamine Coatings.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Vascular Surgery
• Infectious Disease Prevention

Background:

• Collagen-sealed polyester (PET) prostheses are standard in vascular surgery but susceptible to post-surgical infections.
• Existing infection prevention methods for vascular grafts lack long-term efficacy.
• Need for improved graft materials that maintain functionality while resisting infection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel coating for collagen-sealed PET vascular grafts to enhance infection resistance.
• To evaluate the biocompatibility and functionality of the modified vascular grafts.
• To assess the antibiotic-binding capacity and antibacterial efficacy of the coated grafts.

Main Methods:

• Coating of commercial collagen-sealed PET prostheses with poly (L-DOPA).
• Characterization of coated grafts using SEM, FTIR, XPS, and contact angle measurements.
• Assessment of graft properties including wettability, elasticity, hemolysis, and cytotoxicity (in vitro and in vivo models).
• Evaluation of antibiotic (gentamicin) binding and antibacterial activity.

Main Results:

• Poly (L-DOPA) coating maintained the sealing protein and original graft properties (wettability, elasticity).
• Modified grafts showed reduced hemolysis and lower toxicity in endothelial cells and Danio rerio models.
• Poly (L-DOPA)-coated grafts demonstrated six-fold higher gentamicin binding capacity.
• Antibiotic-bound, coated grafts exhibited significantly improved antibacterial activity and anti-adhesion compared to pristine grafts.

Conclusions:

• Poly (L-DOPA) coating is an effective method for functionalizing collagen-sealed PET vascular grafts.
• The coating enhances antibiotic incorporation and antibacterial efficacy without compromising graft integrity.
• This approach offers a promising strategy for improving the safety and performance of vascular prostheses in preventing surgical site infections.