Shape-memory scaffold BiSMR restored endometrium and improved live births in rats with intrauterine adhesions
Authors report a biodegradable scaffold that releases EGCG and then 17β-estradiol. In rats it reduced fibrosis and improved implantation, targeting a major cause of infertility.
Researchers described in Science Advances a bi-drug, bifunctional, biodegradable shape-memory regenerative scaffold, BiSMR, for intrauterine adhesion (IUA), a major cause of infertility science.org
Science Advancesscience.orgOpen source ↗. According to the authors, current treatments remain limited in preventing fibrosis and restoring functional endometrium. The scaffold is designed for minimally invasive implantation, sequential drug release and barrier protection.
Proteomic profiling of chemical, mechanical and combined injury models showed inflammatory activation, extracellular matrix remodeling and impaired regenerative programs. This provided the rationale for combining epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) with 17β-estradiol (E2).
BiSMR pairs an E2-loaded PLTG backbone (poly(l-lactide)-co-trimethylene carbonate-co-glycolic acid) with a PDA-EGCG@HAMA coating. EGCG is released rapidly, followed by sustained E2 delivery.
In vitro, the scaffold promoted cell proliferation, migration, angiogenesis and M2 polarization, and suppressed myofibroblast transition. In rat IUA models it restored endometrial structure and vascularization, reduced fibrosis, and improved implantation and live birth rates science.org
Science Advancesscience.orgOpen source ↗. Proteomics showed down-regulation of fibrosis- and inflammation-related effectors and restoration of protein biosynthesis and regenerative pathways. The data come from cell and rat experiments.
