Endothelium-inspired coatings to improve blood compatibility of medical devices

We developed the first example of an endothelium-inspired nanocoating that controls hemostasis at the interface by modulating blood’s own coagulation system to digest adhered clots. These nanocoatings mimic endothelium by introducing three levels of hierarchical functions: stealth to blood, modulates the activation of hemostasis through the different pathways and even has the ability to direct the disintegration of clots. These three distinct functional levels synergistically integrate to create an interface along which blood can flow undisturbed. This holds promise in reducing the threat of uncontrolled thrombosis and embolism in blood-contacting medical devices which we apply for biosensors, membranes, catheters, etc. In collaboration with our partners from the University Clinic Aachen and Clinic Barcelona we are introducing these coatings on the membrane of oxygenators, venous catheters and the surface of artificial hearts to improve their hemocompatibility which is a longstanding clinical need with potentially life threatening outcomes.