Electrospun nanofiber scaffolds and plasma polymerization: a promising combination towards complete, stable endothelial lining for vascular grafts

Abstract

In the quest to reduce risk of thrombosis in vascular grafts, it is essential to provide a surface with morphological and mechanical properties close to those of the extracellular matrix beneath the luminal endothelium, and to favor the growth of a confluent, stable monolayer of endothelial cells. This is accomplished here by combining electrospun poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) mats with an amine-rich thin plasma-polymerized coating, designated "L-PPE:N." Its deposition does not modify the open, highly porous mats and leads only to small changes in mechanical properties. L-PPE:N significantly improves the adhesion and growth of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) and their resistance to flow-induced shear stress. These properties favor the formation of desired confluent HUVEC monolayers on the topmost surface, unlike conventional vascular grafts (ePTFE or woven PET), where cells migrate inside the material. This combination is therefore highly advantageous for the pre-endothelialization of the luminal side of small-diameter vascular prostheses.

Keywords: electrospinning; endothelialization; mechanical property; plasma polymerization; surface chemistry.