Innovative stent coating with polyphenol-rapamycin complex with improved drug-eluting properties to target in-stent-restenosis - PoRaCoat

Project summary

Peripheral artery disease is caused by atherosclerotic lesions while the most effective treatment is the placement of endovascular stents. In-stent-restenosis (ISR) remains the main clinical problem of the stent therapy. Aiming to overcome this challenge, PoRaCoat is faced to create an innovative stent coating based on conductive polymer matrix poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) with additive of polyphenol-rapamycin complex on cobalt-chromium (Co-Cr) substrate with a stent-like outline (platform). Due to improved drug-eluting properties the proposed coating will help to target ISR simultaneously supporting the regeneration of endothelial cells and preventing the proliferation of smooth muscle cells. PoRaCoat will develop a coating with PEDOT/PRC by electrodeposition method. The coating will be characterized concerning degradation, biocompatibility and effects on cell functions. The technology will have a crucial impact on the treatment of patients with atherosclerotic disease.