Ultrasound Stimulation Improves Seeding of Endothelial Cells in Small-Diameter Polyurethane Vascular Grafts

摘要

The effects of low-intensity ultrasound on biological systems have been intensively investigated during the past decade. We used a novel recombinant RGD-containing protein (CBD-RGD), as well as ultrasonic stimulation to enhance the seeding of endothelial cells on the luminal surface of polyurethane small-diameter vascular grafts. Ultrasonic stimulation did not have a significant influence on the proliferation of endothelial cells, but it increased the extracellular matrix secretion from the cells. Cells after ultrasonic treatment also demonstrated much firmer adhesion to the graft surface.