An injectable and dual-crosslinked hydrogel for controlled and permanent vascular embolization

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Vascular Surgery
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Embolization therapy uses embolic agents to block blood vessels for treating vascular diseases.
• Current embolic materials have limitations in effectively treating vessels of varying sizes and complex structures, hindering controlled and durable embolization.
• Challenges include achieving precise delivery and long-term occlusion at target sites.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an advanced physically/chemically dual-crosslinked hydrogel (DC-gel) as a superior embolic material.
• To enhance injectability, mechanical strength, and imaging capabilities for improved embolization therapy.
• To address limitations of current embolic agents in achieving controlled and durable vascular occlusion.

Main Methods:

• Development of a dual-crosslinked hydrogel (DC-gel) using thermosensitive poly(ethylene glycol)-poly(D-amino acid) copolymers and triethoxysilane-capped 4-arm poly(ethylene glycol) macromolecule crosslinkers.
• Incorporation of an oily contrast agent with high iodine content (>60 wt%) for enhanced imaging.
• In vivo evaluation in rabbit artery, vein, and tumor models to assess embolization efficacy, durability, and safety.

Main Results:

• The DC-gel system demonstrated superior injectability and high mechanical strength due to its dual crosslinking mechanism.
• In vivo studies confirmed persistent embolization without recanalization or non-target effects in various vascular models.
• The integrated contrast agent provided long-lasting imaging for real-time and post-operative visualization.

Conclusions:

• The developed DC-gel represents a promising embolic material overcoming current therapeutic limitations.
• Its dual crosslinking strategy ensures enhanced controllability, durability, and mechanical stability for vascular embolization.
• The material offers improved imaging capabilities and a moderate fibroinflammatory response, making it suitable for clinical applications.