Development of a Multifunctionalized Vascular Scaffolding System to Induce In Situ Endothelial Cell Capture, Smooth Muscle Cell Migration, and Prevention of Inflammatory Cell Infiltration

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death globally, and is responsible for innumerable complications related to the peripheral vascular system. Peripheral vascular disease and vascular trauma are major contributors toward the need of feasible, effective surgical interventions for vascular repair. While autologous vessels are the gold standard for treatment, synthetic alternatives are necessary for some populations of patients. These synthetic vascular conduits are severely limited and suffer from intimal hyperplasia and loss of patency, requiring intervention relatively soon after the initial surgery.