Abstract Body: Introduction
We have developed a novel photoreactive peptide that can be universally modified onto the lumen surfaces of native vessels and cardiovascular devices through brief UV exposure. This peptide enhances endothelial cell recruitment while preventing platelet adhesion. We hypothesize that this photoreactive peptide can improve the blood-contact surfaces of cardiovascular devices, including autologous grafts, synthetical conduits, patches, and tissue-engineered vascular grafts, to promote endothelialization and reduce the risk of restenosis.
Material and Methods
The hemocompatible peptide (His–Gly–Gly–Val–Arg–Leu–Tyr; HGGVRLY) was conjugated with a phenylazide group, enabling its modification onto various materials within 2 minutes of UV exposure. Tests were conducted on native and decellularized rat abdominal aorta (AA) as well as expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE). The binding of endothelial cells and platelets to the modified surfaces was assessed. Additionally, in vivo performance of the modified decellularized vascular grafts was evaluated through implantation.
Results
The photoreactive peptide demonstrated efficient and stable modification onto native and decellularized vessels as well as ePTFE, highlighting its universal photo-induced properties (Fig. 1). The modification process, involving immersion in the peptide solution followed by a 2-minute UV exposure, was completed within 5 minutes. Endothelial cell binding on vessels and ePTFE was significantly enhanced after modification, accompanied by reduced platelet adhesion (Fig. 2). In vivo studies of modified decellularized vascular grafts implanted into rat AA showed a significantly reduced incidence of occlusion during medium-term follow-up. Moreover, the photoreactive peptide remained stable for up to two months post-implantation, confirming the durability of the photoreactive conjugation (Fig. 3).
Conclusions
This photoreactive peptide can be efficiently and stably modified onto a variety of material surfaces, including native tissue and synthetic materials. By promoting endothelial recruitment and reducing platelet adhesion, this peptide has the potential to enhance the performance of autologous native grafts and cardiovascular devices in surgical applications.