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To improve the endothelization of 3D matrices produced by electrospinning we propose adding cyclo(RGDfC) peptide conjugated to human serum albumin (HSA) (HSA-c(RGDfC)) to the electrospinning solution. HSA-c(RGDfC) has been prepared using a bifunctional linker with N-hydroxysuccinimide and maleimide groups, and the product has been confirmed by 1Н NMR spectroscopy. Electrospun matrices have been fabricated from the solutions of 3% polyurethane Tecoflex EG-80A with 10% HSA and 0.01–1.3% HSA–c(RGDfC) (relative to Tec) in 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoro-2-propanol. The presence of HSA and the cyclo(RGDfC) peptide on the surface of electrospun matrices has been confirmed by FTIR spectroscopy. The structure of matrices has been examined by scanning electron microscopy. The ability of the matrices to facilitate the adhesion of primary human umbilical vein endotheliocytes (HUVECs) has been studied. The presence of HSA–c(RGDfC) conjugate in the matrices enhanced cellular adhesion in a dose dependent manner with a maximum effect at 1% HSA-c(RGDfC). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endothelization of the luminal surface of vascular grafts is required for their long-term functioning. Here, we have cultivated human endothelial cells (HUVEC) on different 3D matrices to assess cell proliferation, gene expression and select the best substrate for endothelization. 3D matrices were produced by electrospinning from solutions of poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA), polycaprolactone (PCL), and blends of PCL with gelatin (Gl) in hexafluoroisopropanol. Structure and surface properties of 3D matrices were characterized by SEM, AFM, and sessile drop analysis. Cell adhesion, viability, and proliferation were studied by SEM, Alamar Blue staining, and 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) assay. Gene expression profiling was done on an Illumina HiSeq 2500 platform. Obtained data indicated that 3D matrices produced from PCL with Gl and treated with glutaraldehyde provide the most suitable support for HUVEC adhesion and proliferation. Transcriptome sequencing has demonstrated a minimal difference of gene expression profile in HUVEC cultivated on the surface of these matrices as compared to tissue culture plastic, thus confirming these matrices as the best support for endothelization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]