Experts from the Laboratory of Tissue Engineering and Intravascular Imaging of the Research Institute of Complex Problems of Cardiovascular Diseases (Kemerovo) have developed a silk-based medical product to replace vessels damaged by atherosclerosis. This issue was told to socialbites.ca in the office of the national project “Science and Universities” of the Ministry of Education and Science of Russia.
Kuzbass scientists chose silk fibroin, obtained from silkworm cocoons and used as a sewing material for a long time, as the material. Silk fibroin seems to be the most suitable material for the production of vascular patches as it minimizes the risks of complications.
Scientists used silk fibroin to create 3D porous fibrous structures using electrospinning, a technology that pioneered the use of tissue-engineered vascular patches.
“Preclinical tests with the implantation of the developed patch into the jugular vein in large laboratory animals gave satisfactory results. The experiment showed not only the full patency of the vessels with the implanted patches, but also the coating of the inner surface of the patch with the body’s own cells. This is extremely important, because the implant can be regenerated early with your own cells.” Its filling prevents the formation of blood clots, reducing the risk of stroke.The patch retained its structure and functioned well in animals throughout six months of observation, Nikita Kochergin, head of the tissue engineering and intravascular imaging laboratory, told socialbites.ca.
Testing of the new medical product is currently ongoing. The research team decided to develop the composition of the improved tissue-engineered patch with improved biocompatibility and mechanical properties through a novel polymer combination.
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