UV-modified and dual-catalytic Cu porphyrin-loaded TiO2 nanotubes with enhanced hemocompatibility and prevention of stent restenosis

Abstract

Implanting vascular stents is regarded as a ground-breaking technique for treating cardiovascular disorders. Thus, advancements in vascular stent technology and stent materials have significant social and economic implications. The development of a surface with bionic endothelial function of nitric oxide (NO) release is always an ideal direction for cardiovascular material modification. However, The NO-release stents will face severe challenges in the oxidative stress microenvironment of atherosclerotic lesions. Excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) can delay scaffold surface re-endothelialization by causing rapidly oxidative inactivation of NO and by causing endothelial cells (ECs) to undergo apoptosis. Regulating the oxidative stress microenvironment is crucial to address the aforementioned issues. In this study, a composite material that contains ultraviolet (UV)-modified and Copper (II) meso-tetra(4-carboxyphenyl) porphine (CuTPP)-loaded titanium dioxide nanotubes (NTs) was presented. CuTPP can efficiently catalyze the decomposition of ROS and also decompose GSNO into NO. As a unique technique, UV irradiation was used to enhance the anticoagulant properties of the CuTPP-loaded NTs (NTs@Cu). In vivo and in vitro results demonstrated that UV treated NTs@Cu maintained strong biocompatibility, anti-thrombosis, ECs and smooth muscle cells (SMCs) regulation, and anti-inflammatory capabilities. This technique might present a fresh idea for developing brand-new NO-release scaffolds.