A non-glutaraldehyde synergistic crosslinking and modification strategy for functionalized pericardial biomaterials via ATRP for bioprosthetic heart valves

This study introduces a novel, non-glutaraldehyde crosslinking and surface functionalization method for decellularized porcine pericardium (D-PP) using atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP). The approach yields a synergistically crosslinked and functionalized pericardial biomaterial (PT-BS-PP) with improved mechanical strength, biocompatibility, and anti-calcification properties compared to glutaraldehyde-treated controls. The PT-BS-PP scaffolds demonstrated reduced immune response, enhanced endothelialization, and superior hemocompatibility in vitro and in vivo. This glutaraldehyde-free ATRP-based modification represents a significant advancement toward safer, longer-lasting bioprosthetic heart valve materials.