Figure 4: The optimal implantable platform: BRS or nanotechnologies?
Panel demonstrates a cross-sectional appearance of BRS (thick struts with weak mechanical properties, eluting mTOR inhibitor (one month release) and proposed optimal scaffold. The structure of the ultimate platform includes: (1) a polymeric backbone with incorporated biodegradable nanoparticles (for example, lipid and calcium-phosphate-based with better mechanical properties), carrying mTOR inhibitor/ drug (long-term drug-release and optimal local metabolism), (2) abluminal reservoir of mTOR inhibitor/ drug in lipid-based nanoparticles, acting acutely, (3) coating with antibodies to CD73+, CD105+ or CD133+ in order to capture progenitor cells for optimal re-endothelialization and immune or repair responses.