Peptide-grafted Hydrogels to Capture Endothelial Progenitor Cells under Shear for Endothelialization

摘要

All tested bioactive peptides supported ECFC rolling, whereas PEG-DA alone and RGES did not. PEG-DA was shown to be a viable ""blank slate" base material for testing the ability of grafted ligands. including PEG-peptides. to interact with rolling ECFCs. Results demonstrated the ability of α_4β_1 integrin-specific peptide REDV to significantly reduce ECFC rolling velocity as compared to other tested peptide sequences. Capture on CRRETAWAC and PRb suggests that α_5β_1. rather than α_vβ_3, is the major integrin that is responsible for ECFC capture under shear. CRRETAWAC was found to be superior in capturing rolling ECFCs under shear, and this effect was enhanced by the combination of REDV. Results of this study could be applied in the design of biomaterials for stent coating and vascular grafts to enhance endothelialization and improve EPC strength of adhesion under shear.