Advances of surface modification to alleviate oxidative stress-induced valve degeneration

Valvular heart disease (VHD) is a significant public health threat, with heart valve replacement surgery being the standard treatment for severe cases. Despite of advancements in artificial heart valves, their longevity remains limited due to in vivo degeneration. In consequence, there is an urgent need for effective methods to enhance the durability of artificial heart valves. Because oxidative stress (OS) is a key driving factor contributing to the failure of cardiovascular implants, this review focuses on how OS plays a critical role in heart valve degeneration, and its relationship with four major physiological mechanisms: extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation, immune response, thrombosis and lipid metabolism. By highlighting OS as a potential therapeutic target, we explore surface modification strategies that incorporate these fundamental mechanisms, refer to passive approaches including OS elimination, immunosuppression, blocking surface-degradation active groups, and anticoagulation, and active approaches such as regulating biological function recovery, and surface endothelial remodeling. These strategies aim to delay or reverse artificial valves degeneration via combining with the perspective of OS regulation, ultimately extending the prognosis period after heart valve replacement surgeries. • Critical roles of oxidative stress (OS) on heart valve degeneration are shown. • Surface modifications for attenuating valve degeneration are summarized. • Potential of delaying valve degeneration by regulating OS is suggested.