Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology (Sep 2023)

Polyester urethane urea (PEUU) functionalization for enhanced anti-thrombotic performance: advancing regenerative cardiovascular devices through innovative surface modifications

  • María A. Rodríguez-Soto,
  • Natalia Suárez Vargas,
  • María Ayala-Velásquez,
  • Andrés M. Aragón-Rivera,
  • Carlos Ostos,
  • Juan C. Cruz,
  • Carolina Muñoz Camargo,
  • Seungil Kim,
  • Antonio D’Amore,
  • William R. Wagner,
  • Juan C. Briceño,
  • Juan C. Briceño

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3389/fbioe.2023.1257778
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 11

Abstract

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Introduction: Thrombogenesis, a major cause of implantable cardiovascular device failure, can be addressed through the use of biodegradable polymers modified with anticoagulating moieties. This study introduces a novel polyester urethane urea (PEUU) functionalized with various anti-platelet deposition molecules for enhanced antiplatelet performance in regenerative cardiovascular devices.Methods: PEUU, synthesized from poly-caprolactone, 1,4-diisocyanatobutane, and putrescine, was chemically oxidized to introduce carboxyl groups, creating PEUU-COOH. This polymer was functionalized in situ with polyethyleneimine, 4-arm polyethylene glycol, seleno-L-cystine, heparin sodium, and fondaparinux. Functionalization was confirmed using Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Bio-compatibility and hemocompatibility were validated through metabolic activity and hemolysis assays. The anti-thrombotic activity was assessed using platelet aggregation, lactate dehydrogenase activation assays, and scanning electron microscopy surface imaging. The whole-blood clotting time quantification assay was employed to evaluate anticoagulation properties.Results: Results demonstrated high biocompatibility and hemocompatibility, with the most potent anti-thrombotic activity observed on pegylated surfaces. However, seleno-L-cystine and fondaparinux exhibited no anti-platelet activity.Discussion: The findings highlight the importance of balancing various factors and addressing challenges associated with different approaches when developing innovative surface modifications for cardiovascular devices.

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