Evaluation of the Safety and Biocompatibility of a Novel Galvanized Vascular Stent in a Rabbit Atherosclerosis Model.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Compared to traditional pure zinc stents, the novel galvanized vascular stent (GVS) combines the mechanical advantages of cobalt-chromium alloy with the biological functions of zinc. This study aims to evaluate the safety and biocompatibility of the GVS in a rabbit atherosclerosis model. METHODS: A rabbit atherosclerosis model was established using a high-fat diet (HFD), and a galvanized cobalt-chromium alloy stent was implanted in the abdominal aorta. The experimental animals were followed up at 1, 3, and 6 months postsurgery. Safety was assessed through hematological parameters and histopathological analysis, and scanning electron microscopy and tissue section staining were used to evaluate re-endothelialization and intimal hyperplasia in the stented arterial segment. Proteomics was employed to uncover potential molecular mechanisms. RESULTS: At each time point following GVS implantation, no significant abnormalities were observed in hematological parameters or histopathological examination of major organs. No significant restenosis was observed in the stented segment at 6 months postimplantation. A complete endothelial layer was formed on the stent surface at 1 month postsurgery, and the stent remained fully covered at 6 months. The intimal thickness adjacent to the stent struts gradually increased postsurgery but showed no significant pathological hyperplasia. Proteomics suggests that the GVS may promote vascular repair through signaling pathways, such as phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-protein kinase B, cyclic guanosine monophosphate-protein kinase G, and cyclic adenosine monophosphate, and may have potential advantages in inducing macrophage polarization to the anti-inflammatory M2 type and inhibiting oxidative stress responses. CONCLUSIONS: The GVS demonstrates good safety and biocompatibility in a rabbit atherosclerosis model.