The Center of Cardiovascular Biomaterials is directed by Dr. Harasaki who is a cardiac surgeon and obtained his Ph.D. in immunopathology. This electro-mechanically actuated TAH is unique in its actuation mechanism and is designed to fit even in a small sized, female patient. This system is equipped with a compliance chamber and is totally implantable as a permanent device. Design refinement, pump surface modification and in vitro and in vivo tests are being performed in the laboratory. Thromboembolism remains a serious complication of mechanical heart valve prostheses.
Studies continue to elucidate the mechanism of initiation of calcific deposits.
Finite element analyses and mathematical modeling of valve motion are also underway. Development of a small diameter vascular graft is underway using tissue engineering technology modifying the endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells. Gene transfected endothelial cells with enhanced NO production are being seeded on a new fluorinated scaffold material. A drug delivery system is used to control the intimal hyperplasia. In vitro studies on temperature effects on blood, inflammatory, and tissue repair cells continue.