Supramolecular structure of human aortic valve and pericardial xenograft material: atomic force microscopy study.

摘要: Pericardial tissue (bovine or porcine), chemically stabilized with glutaraldehyde (GA), is widely used in cardiovascular surgery the form of bioprosthetic valves. GA reacts proteins and creates inter- intra-molecular cross-links, resulting improved durability. However, calcification mechanical damage are still unresolved problems. The purpose this study was to examine surface topography normal human aortic valve GA-stabilized porcine pericardium order gain comparative insight into supramolecular structure both tissues. analysis focused on morphologic evaluation collagen constituents Atomic force microscopy working contact mode air employed study. Considerable diversity spatial orientation fibrils for pericardial were observed. It found that different forms fibril packing, i.e. dense “in phase” loose, could have an impact D-banding pattern. Stabilization introduced significant changes their organization surface. Strong disturbance fibril’s D-spacing also suggested, observed structural at level might make important contribution progressive tissue. presented results demonstrate AFM method can be useful non-destructive characterization heart valves material.