PLLA-TMC-GA terpolymer was prepared by ring-opening polymerization of L-lactide, 1, 3-trimethylene carbonate (TMC), and glycolide (GA). The biocompatibility of terpolymer was evaluated in comparison with PLLA and PLLA-TMC with the aim of assessing their potential in the development of bioresorbable cardiovascular stents. Various aspects of in vitro biocompatibility were considered, including MTT assay, hemolytic test, dynamic clotting time, platelet adhesion, platelet activation, protein adsorption, plasma recalcification time and release of cytokines. The results revealed that the terpolymer presents good cytocompatibility and hemocompatibility. Moreover, no significant increase in the release of cytokines was detected. It is thus concluded that these polymers, in particular PLLA-TMC-GA terpolymer present good biocompatibility for cardiovascular applications.
Keywords: biocompatibility; bioresorbable; cardiovascular stent; poly (trimethylene carbonate); polyglycolide; polylactide.