Biodegradable cross-linked albumin microcapsules for embolization.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Albumin microcapsules are utilized in various biomedical applications.
• Controlling microcapsule properties is crucial for their efficacy and safety.
• Interfacial polymerization offers a method to synthesize cross-linked albumin microcapsules.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of cross-linking on albumin microcapsule properties.
• To evaluate the biodegradation and in vivo effects of albumin microcapsules with varying cross-linking densities.
• To assess the suitability of albumin microcapsules for embolization procedures.

Main Methods:

• Interfacial polymerization to create cross-linked albumin microcapsules.
• Varying emulsification stirring rates and acyl chloride concentrations.
• Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) for surface morphology analysis.
• In vivo embolization experiments in canine kidneys.
• Histological and angiographical assessments.

Main Results:

• Microcapsule particle size correlated with emulsification stirring rate.
• Cross-linking agent concentration influenced microcapsule wall properties and surface morphology (rippled vs. smooth).
• Weakly cross-linked microcapsules biodegraded within 7 days, causing reversible ischemia.
• Highly cross-linked microcapsules degraded over 14 days, leading to prolonged ischemia.
• No foreign body reaction was observed, attributed to rapid biodegradation.

Conclusions:

• Biodegradation rate of albumin microcapsules is controllable via cross-linking density.
• Weakly cross-linked albumin microcapsules are suitable for embolization due to rapid, reversible ischemia.
• Highly cross-linked microcapsules pose a risk of prolonged ischemia and should be avoided for embolization.