A Novel Polymer Film to Develop Heart Valve Prostheses

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Cardiovascular Engineering

Background:

• Bioprosthetic heart valves face calcific degeneration, limiting their lifespan.
• Transcatheter valve technology necessitates advanced, durable biomaterials.
• Polymer chemistry offers alternatives to biological tissues for valve prostheses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the properties of REPEREN® polymer film for potential use in heart valve prostheses.
• To compare REPEREN® with cross-linked bovine pericardium (DE-BP) in terms of mechanical and biocompatibility aspects.

Main Methods:

• REPEREN® film characterization using SEM and AFM.
• Assessment of hydrophilicity, cytocompatibility (EA.hy926 cells), and hemocompatibility (platelet adhesion/aggregation).
• Mechanical testing and subcutaneous implantation in rats for 90 days, followed by histological analysis.

Main Results:

• REPEREN® exhibits distinct smooth and rough surfaces; the rough surface demonstrates enhanced hydrophilicity, hemocompatibility, and cytocompatibility.
• REPEREN® possesses higher ultimate tensile stress than DE-BP.
• Subcutaneous implantation revealed superior biocompatibility of REPEREN® compared to DE-BP.

Conclusions:

• REPEREN® polymer film demonstrates promising properties for the development of polymeric heart valves.
• The material's mechanical strength and biocompatibility suggest it as a viable alternative to current bioprostheses.
• Further research on valve durability and in vivo performance in large animals is warranted.