Magnetic Capture of Endothelial Cells to Vascular Stents Within An Externally Applied Magnetic Field

摘要

Magnetic targeting of endothelial cells to vascular stents is a promising means of cell capture and retention. The presence of autologous endothelial cells may enhance healing of the stented artery and improve clinical outcomes. Magnetizing stents prior to implantation and delivering cells without an externally applied magnetic field resulted in modest cell capture. Delivering cells in the presence of an externally applied magnetic field resulted in significantly enhanced cell capture. Studies are currently underway to test this strategy in a porcine model.