Abstract
Abstract Introduction Cardiovascular disease is a global killer. For progressive disease coronary artery bypass grafting is used, which is limited by suboptimal vasculature and patency. Alternatively, tissue engineered scaffolds are cell seeded structures supporting neovascularization. Poly(ethylene-diethylene glycol succinate)urea-urethane-polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane [P(EDS)UU-POSS] shows potential for its elastic and degradation properties. In this study, we manufacture a P(EDS)UU-POSS scaffold and assess human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) attachment. Method 3D printed thermally induced phase separated (3DTIPS) scaffolds were manufactured. Mechanical testing was employed to compare scaffold stress-strain curves with those of currently utilised vessels and synthetic grafts. HUVEC were seeded onto scaffolds coated with type I collagen and peptide hydrogel respectively. Surface functionalization in this way, is hypothesised to optimise cell attachment. Assessment of cell viability was with PrestoBlueTM and total DNA assay. Confocal imaging was also performed. Results Tensile properties of 3D-TIPS scaffolds match the greater saphenous vein. 3D-TIPS scaffolds exhibit higher elasticity than synthetic PCL grafts, meeting stretch and strength requirements of vessels. Metabolism data shows an initial increase followed by a decrease for both types of coating. This indicates a decrease in overall metabolism but not cell death, attributed to cellular adaptation to the scaffold microenvironment, with collagen coating performing better. Visualisation of type I collagen samples demonstrates increases in cellular attachment. Conclusions There is potential for optimised 3DTIPS P(EDS)UU-POSS scaffolds with suitable mechanical properties. Further study of HUVEC and smooth muscle cell co-culture will better mimic in vivo environments, assessing sustained potential as vascular grafts.
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