Development and preclinical evaluation of biopolymer-covered stents as a multipotent carrier for local drug delivery

(Dr. S. Barlach, Leibniz-Research Laboratory for Biotechnology and Artificial Organs, MHH / Dr. A. Borck, Biotronik Erlangen
Email: Barlach.Sabine@MH-Hannover.de; gerd.bayer@biotronik-erlangen.de)

Aim of this project is the development of new types of biopolymer-covered stents for the therapy of arterial obstructions. The biopolymer hyaluronic acid (HA) has an inherent effect on the process of undesired neointimal proliferation that leaves no or few side-effects during the degradation period. In addition, the hydrophilic and degradable characteristic of the layer allows for local drug delivery. A degenerative layer in combination with a degradable stent (see projects "magnesium stents", "iron stents") ultimately offers the best chance of temporary local drug application without the drawbacks of a permanent implant within moving organs.