Sulfonated PEDOT-Modified Decellularized Arteries as Electroactive Scaffolds for Vascular Tissue Engineering.

Abstract

Electroactive biomaterials present new opportunities for "smart" vascular grafts capable of supporting tissue integration while enabling electrical stimulation, sensing, or real-time modulation of the vascular environment. In this study, a conductive vascular conduit was engineered by incorporating sulfonated poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (S'PEDOT) into extracellular matrix (ECM)-based scaffolds. Initial screening in collagen sponges identified S'PEDOT concentrations that supported biocompatibility with primary endothelial and smooth muscle cells while minimizing platelet adhesion. This strategy was then applied to decellularized rat aortas, which were functionalized with S'PEDOT and evaluated for electrical conductivity, tensile mechanics, and structural integrity. The modified grafts retained native architecture and mechanical compliance while exhibiting significantly enhanced conductivity compared to unmodified controls. In vivo biocompatibility was assessed by subcutaneous implantation in rats, followed by histological and immunohistochemical analyses. The S'PEDOT-modified grafts elicited minimal inflammatory response and preserved tissue architecture. These findings demonstrate a promising approach for integrating conductive polymers into natural scaffolds to develop electroactive vascular grafts, supporting future applications in multifunctional and responsive vascular devices.