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The Effects of Biomimetic Surface Topography on Vascular Cells: Implications for Vascular Conduits

Abigail A Conner1, Dency David1, Evelyn K F Yim1,2,3

  • 1Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON, N2L 3G1, Canada.

Advanced Healthcare Materials
|June 27, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Surface topography on synthetic small-diameter vascular grafts (sSDVGs) can improve outcomes for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Mimicking the cellular environment with biomimetic textures enhances graft performance and offers new therapeutic solutions.

Area of Science:

  • Biomaterials Science
  • Regenerative Medicine
  • Vascular Surgery

Background:

  • Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a leading global cause of death, with vascular occlusions often requiring bypass graft surgery.
  • Synthetic small-diameter vascular grafts (sSDVGs) are crucial for bypassing small vessels (<6 mm) but suffer from poor patency rates.
  • Biomimetic surface topography on sSDVGs can enhance cellular interactions and improve graft function.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of surface topography in the design of sSDVGs.
  • To explore how topographical cues influence vascular cell behavior in vitro.
  • To evaluate the in vivo performance of topographically-enhanced sSDVGs and discuss clinical translation.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on surface topography in sSDVG design.
  • Analysis of in vitro data on the effects of topographical cues on vascular cells.
  • Evaluation of in vivo results from topographically-modified sSDVGs.

Main Results:

  • Surface topography significantly impacts vascular cell behavior, with specific features showing promise for improving graft integration.
  • In vivo studies demonstrate that topographically-enhanced sSDVGs exhibit improved patency and performance compared to conventional grafts.
  • Optimized surface topography can effectively mimic the cellular microenvironment, promoting better cellular responses.

Conclusions:

  • Substrate topography is a critical factor in advancing sSDVG technology for treating CVDs.
  • Biomimetic surface features hold substantial potential for improving the clinical outcomes of vascular grafts.
  • Further research and development in topographically-enhanced sSDVGs are essential for addressing unmet clinical needs in cardiovascular surgery.

Keywords:
biointerface engineeringmechanobiologysmall‐diameter vascular tissue engineeringsurface topographysynthetic vascular grafts

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