Comparative gene expression profiling of human primary endotheliocytes cultivated on polyurethane-based electrospun 3D matrices and natural decellularized vein

Formation of a continuous layer of normally functioning endothelium on the lumen surface of small diameter vascular grafts is considered a prerequisite of their long-term functioning without stenosis. Thus, materials supporting not only endothelialization but also normal functioning state of endotheliocytes are demanded. In this study we have evaluated the functional state of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) cultivated on the surface of autologous decellularized human umbilical vein and electrospun polyurethane-based matrices by NGS gene expression profiling. Three types of matrices produced by electrospinning from hexafluoroisopropanol solutions of pure TECOFLEX EG-80A polyurethane, polyurethane with gelatin and polyurethane with gelatin and bivalirudin were studied. Cells cultivated on different supports were subjected to RNA-Seq profiling on Illumina HiSeq platform. The data demonstrated that structure of 3D matrices and chemical composition of the fibers have a significant effect on gene expression profiles of HUVEC. Results suggest that protein-enriched polyurethane based 3D matrices represent a convenient surface for obtaining of normally functioning endothelial layer.