Svenja Wein, M.Sc.

Fibrin-based hydrogels for controlling cell-biomaterial interactions

Artificial heart valves need improved biocompatibility and reproducibility.
We study biohybrid heart valves comprising on a fibrin-gel matrix in combination with poly(N-vinylcaprolactam) copolymers, and patient stem to address this need. I analyze the direct cell-biomaterial interaction as well as the long-term behavior of the cells in the in vitro implant. Of great importance is the myogenic differentiation of the cells in and on the fibrin gel by the addition of specific growth factors such as TGF-β1 and BMP4. Furthermore, the vascularization of the gel by the formation of endothelial capillary-like structures is analyzed to ensure in vivo supply of the implant.