NEW laser technology developed by the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) significantly improves the effectiveness of stents in vascular treatments. By utilising laser-patterned surfaces, this innovation enhances endothelial cell growth while suppressing smooth muscle cell dedifferentiation, reducing the risk of restenosis.
Vascular diseases are on the rise as South Korea’s population ages, necessitating advanced solutions like stents to maintain blood flow in narrowed or blocked arteries. However, traditional metal stents are prone to causing restenosis, where excessive smooth muscle cell proliferation re-narrows the artery. While drug-eluting stents mitigate this, they often impede vascular re-endothelialization, raising thrombosis risks. To address these challenges, researchers at KIST, led by Dr. Hojeong Jeon and colleagues, applied nanosecond laser texturing to create nano- and micro-scale wrinkle patterns on nickel-titanium alloys. These patterns foster endothelial cell adhesion and proliferation while inhibiting undesirable smooth muscle cell behaviours.
The research team validated the efficacy of the laser-textured stent surfaces using in vitro and ex vivo models. Results demonstrated that the wrinkle patterns reduced smooth muscle cell proliferation by approximately 75% and doubled angiogenesis, highlighting the technology’s potential to enhance vascular recovery. The innovation’s adaptability extends to biodegradable stents, where the patterns could optimise vascular healing before the stent dissolves.
This laser-based approach represents a leap forward in stent technology, bridging the gap between regenerative medicine and vascular therapy. By selectively modulating cellular responses without relying on drugs, the method offers a safer and more efficient alternative for stent surface treatment. Future work will focus on animal studies and clinical trials to ensure the technology’s long-term safety and effectiveness. If successfully commercialised, it could revolutionise stent manufacturing and clinical practices, improving patient outcomes and reducing complications.
Katrina Thornber, EMJ
Reference
Jun I et al. Exploring the potential of laser-textured metal alloys: fine-tuning vascular cells responses through in vitro and ex vivo analysis. Bioactive Materials. 2025;1;43:181-94.
