Electrospun tecothane based protein enriched scaffolds for blood-contacting devices

Three-dimensional scaffolds produced by electrospinning from blends of Tecothane™ TT-1074A (Tect) with varying concentrations of gelatin (Gl) in hexafluoroisopropanol were investigated for their physicochemical properties, stability at different pH levels, and bio- and hemocompatibility. To enhance hemocompatibility, bivalirudin (Bv) was incorporated into the surface layer of the scaffold fibers. All scaffolds exhibited good strength (up to 22 MPa) with a high yield point (about 400%). Storage for 1 month at different pH levels leads to moderate decrease of stiffness with bell-shape variation of the elongation at break. IR spectra did not reveal discernible hydrolysis of pH-sensitive bonds. These changes also did not correlate with fiber diameters and may be attributed to inter-fiber contacts and rearrangements in the fiber inner structure. Scaffolds containing 10% Gl and 1.5% Bv demonstrated good biocompatibility in terms of human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) adhesion and proliferation, as well as minimal platelet adhesion, aggregation induction, and hemolysis. In conclusion, these findings indicate the suitability of Tect-based scaffolds for vascular graft production.