Published online by Cambridge University Press: 01 February 2011
The application of vascular stents using conventional metals is limited because the implantation process will cause significant injury to the vascular wall and endothelium, resulting in neointima hyperplasia and then the development of long-term restenosis. The objective of this in vitro study was to investigate endothelial cell function (especially their adhesion behavior) on highly controllable nanostructured surface features. Considering the importance of the endothelium and its properties, highly controllable nanostructured surface features of titanium (a popular vascular stent metal) were created using E-beam evaporation to promote endothelialization and to control the direction of endothelial cells on vascular stents. Endothelial cells are aligned with blood flow naturally in the body. In this manner, the present in vitro study provides much promise for the use of nanotechnology for improving metals for vascular stent applications.