Advancements in the fabrication technologies and biomaterials for small diameter vascular grafts: A fine-tuning of physicochemical and biological properties. (April 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Shahriari-Khalaji, Mina; Shafiq, Muhammad; Cui, Haitao; Cao, Ran; Zhu, Meifang
• Is Part Of: Applied materials today. Volume 31(2023)
• Publication Date: 2023-04
• Subjects: Small diameter blood vessels -- Fabrication method -- Cardiovascular diseases -- Additive manufacturing -- Tissue engineering -- Regenerative medicine; Materials science -- Periodicals; Materials -- Research -- Periodicals; 620.1105
• DOI: 10.1016/j.apmt.2023.101778
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2352-9407

Abstract

Highlights: Herein, manufacturing methods of both natural and synthetic materials as well as decellularized matrix-based SDBVs have been addressed along with their merits and demerits. Selection of an appropriate technique as well as a suitable material is critical for the fabrication of tunable SDBVs, because both affect the physico-chemical characteristics of the grafts. Simultaneously using multiple micro/nanofabrication techniques could aid in tailoring the grafts with desired properties. Micro/nanofabrication methods could govern cellular processes and bio-mechanical properties of grafts by affecting cell infiltration, degradation, and burst pressure of SCBVs. Decellularized SDBVs offer a promising platform owing to their preserved vascular networks, ECM components, and ECM localization, assisting neovascularization in various ways. Abstract: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Autografts are gold-standard treatment options. However, their use is hampered by several limitations, such as donor-site associated immunogenicity, thrombosis, intimal hyperplasia (IH), and stenosis. Synthetic vascular grafts have the potential for large-diameter blood vessel reconstruction; nevertheless, they often fall short when grafted as small diameter substitutes. Small-diameter vascular grafts often fail due to thrombosis and IH. Significant strides have been made in the treatment of CVDs due to the rapid development of fabrication technologies of small diameter blood vessels (SDBVs) and the use of diverse biomaterials that enable the creation of SDBVs with the capacity to integrate, remodel, and heal in vivo . Despite several publications on the use of various biomaterials in the creation of SDBVs, there is a significant paucity of expertise and literature on natural and synthetic polymer-based SDBV fabrication processes. In this review, we aim to summarize different types of fabrication technologies that have been leveraged for SDBV fabrication as well as discuss their merits and demerits. The most recent and relevant accomplishments have been further highlighted. In addition, we provide perspectives on current challenges, future development opportunities, and new directions. Continuous progress in SDBV manufacturing is predictable, implying that the clinical application of SDBVs will become a reality in the near future.