Platelet adhesion to a biomimetic prosthesis prepared from canine arterial wall.

A biomimetic prosthesis was prepared from canine arterial wall by extraction with 70% formic acid. Under these conditions, the arterial architecture consisting of elastic lamella was conserved and the tensile strength was retained. Attachment of 51Cr-endothelial cells to the surface of the prosthesis was enhanced in the presence of collagen (50 micrograms/ml), fibronectin (20 micrograms/ml), and fibrinogen (500 micrograms/ml). These agents also enhanced the adhesion of 51Cr-platelets. However, preattachment of endothelial cells to prostheses prevented platelet adhesion.