Mechanically robust neuroprotective stent by sequential Mg ions release for ischemic stroke therapy

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Neuroscience
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Acute ischemic stroke with large vessel occlusion often requires stent implantation post-thrombectomy.
• Despite recanalization, ischemia-reperfusion injury leads to poor prognosis in these patients.
• Combining reperfusion therapy with neuroprotection is crucial for improving outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel biodegradable, neuroprotective stent for acute ischemic stroke.
• To investigate a magnesium-eluting stent incorporating magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) particles within a poly (l-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone) (PLCL) substrate.
• To evaluate the neuroprotective efficacy of the developed stent in vitro and in vivo.

Main Methods:

• Utilized 3D printing technology to fabricate a PLCL-based stent incorporating MgSO4 particles.
• Introduced a novel MgSO4-particle/Mg2+-ions combined-mechanical reinforcement mechanism.
• Validated neuroprotective effects using oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation-injured neuron cells (in vitro) and a transient middle cerebral artery occlusion rat model (in vivo).

Main Results:

• Demonstrated the successful fabrication of a biodegradable, neuroprotective stent.
• Confirmed the MgSO4-particle/Mg2+-ions combined-mechanical reinforcement mechanism.
• Showcased significant neuroprotective efficacy in both in vitro and in vivo models of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury.

Conclusions:

• This study presents the first development of biodegradable neuroprotective brain stents.
• The staged-release of Mg2+ offers sequential neuroprotection aligned with the acute ischemic stroke treatment window.
• The novel stent represents an effective strategy to alleviate cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury.