Evaluation of in situ tissue-engineered arteriovenous grafts suitable for cannulation in a large animal model

Besseling PJ, Szymczyk W, et al.

Communications Materials

University Medical Center Utrecht, Eindhoven University of Technology

RESEARCH SUMMARY

This study evaluated the mechanical performance and remodeling behavior of biodegradable polycarbonate–bis-urea (PC-BU) vascular scaffolds reinforced with a 3D-printed supramolecular polycaprolactone coil, designed for arteriovenous (AV) grafts in hemodialysis. Using a goat model, the team demonstrated that the grafts maintained patency and structural integrity through repeated cannulation over 12 weeks. The engineered scaffolds gradually transformed into living, autologous vascular tissue with organized extracellular matrix deposition and functional endothelium, while avoiding aneurysm formation. The results indicate that in situ tissue-engineered grafts possess a self-healing capability during remodeling, offering potential as sustainable, infection-resistant vascular access solutions.

Mechanical characterization of explanted vascular grafts was performed using a CellScale BioTester 5000 equipped with 5 N and 23 N load cells. Ring sections (2–3 mm wide) were subjected to uniaxial tensile ring testing to assess elastic modulus and stress–strain behavior. Custom 1 mm hooks were used to define the zero-strain position at 40% of the inner circumference, followed by cyclic loading up to 100% strain. The BioTester provided precise tension–strain data, revealing a progressive shift from synthetic stiffness toward native carotid-like compliance as remodeling advanced.

AUTHORS

Paul J. Besseling, Wojciech Szymczyk, Martin Teraa, Raechel J. Toorop, Paul A.A. Bartels, Boris Arts, Rob C.H. Driessen, Arturo M. Lichauco, Hidde C. Bakker, Joost O. Fledderus, Gert J. de Borst, Patricia Y.W. Dankers, Carlijn V.C. Bouten, Marianne C. Verhaar.

PUBLICATION DETAILS

JOURNAL

Communications Materials

YEAR

2025

INSTITUTIONS

University Medical Center Utrecht, Eindhoven University of Technology

COUNTRIES

Netherlands

INSTRUMENT USED

BioTester

TESTING METHODS

Tensile TestingViscoelastic & Time-Dependent Testing

RESEARCH APPLICATIONS

Cardiac Tissue Engineering & MechanicsFibrosis & Tissue RemodelingInjectable & Regenerative BiomaterialsVascular Tissue Engineering & Mechanics

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