Chlorogenic Acid-Strontium-Containing Dual-Functional Bioresorbable External Stent Suppresses Venous Graft Restenosis...

Vein graft restenosis remains a major complication following coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), mainly due to the abnormal proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and impaired endothelial repair. While external stents (eStents) can provide mechanical support and limit adverse remodeling, traditional metallic stents are non-degradable and may induce chronic inflammation and fibrosis. In contrast, many bioresorbable materials degrade too quickly or lack mechanical strength. These challenges highlight the need for external stents that combine sufficient mechanical strength with biodegradability to support long-term graft patency. This is the first study that develops a chlorogenic acid-strontium (SrCA)-loaded polycaprolactone bioresorbable eStent that inhibits VSMC proliferation and enhances endothelial repair via Hippo-Yes-associated protein (YAP) signaling, addressing vein graft restenosis post-CABG. Combining mechanical support and biodegradability, it overcomes the limitations of non-degradable stents and rapidly degrading biomaterials, elucidates the potential of natural polyphenol-metal ion complexes in vascular remodeling, and offers an innovative strategy for the prevention of vein graft restenosis.