Visible Light-Induced Cross-Linking of Porcine Pericardium for the Improvement of Endothelialization, Anti-Tearing, and Anticalcification Properties

The study introduces a visible-light photo-oxidation cross-linking method to stabilize porcine pericardium for bioprosthetic heart valves without glutaraldehyde. Furfuryl glycidyl ether was chemically grafted to pericardium, and in the presence of Rose Bengal under visible light, photo-oxidized furan groups created cross-links within the collagen network. The resulting material exhibited mechanical properties comparable to glutaraldehyde-cross-linked controls and superior anti-tearing strength. Collagen stability was enhanced and collagenase degradation markedly reduced compared to native pericardium. Biological assays showed high cell viability and robust endothelial coverage. Subcutaneous implantation in rats revealed minimal inflammation and substantially lower calcium deposition. The photo-cross-linked material retained strength and flexibility while reducing calcification and improving endothelialization.