A new haemocompatible phospholipid polyurethane based on hydrogenated poly(isoprene) soft segment

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Medical Device Engineering

Background:

• Developing hemocompatible materials is crucial for blood-contacting medical devices.
• Polyurethanes are widely used but often require surface modification for improved hemocompatibility.
• Phospholipid-based polymers offer potential for enhanced biocompatibility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize a new phospholipid polyurethane with improved hemocompatibility.
• To evaluate the bulk, surface, and hemocompatibility properties of the novel material.
• To assess its potential for applications in medical devices.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of phospholipid polyurethane using hydrogenated poly(isoprene) glycol (HPIP), 4,4'-methylendiphenyl diisocyanate (MDI), 2-[bis(2-hydroxyethyl)methyl-ammonio]ethylstearylphosphate (BESP), and 1,4-butanediol (BD).
• Characterization using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), dynamic viscoelasticity, tensile testing, ATR-FTIR, and contact angle measurements.
• Hemocompatibility assessment via platelet rich plasma (PRP) studies, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and clotting time tests with platelet poor plasma (PPP) and PRP.

Main Results:

• The synthesized polymer exhibited a hydrophobic surface.
• Lower platelet adhesion and limited platelet shape change were observed compared to medical grade poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC).
• Clotting times for the new polyurethane were significantly longer (99s in PPP, >240s in PRP) than PVC (75s in PPP, 100s in PRP) and glass (62s in PPP, 86s in PRP).

Conclusions:

• The novel phospholipid polyurethane demonstrates excellent hemocompatibility and mechanical strength.
• Its properties suggest suitability for coating or structural components in blood-contacting medical equipment.
• This material represents a promising advancement for safer and more effective medical devices.