Emerging Nanofibrous Polycaprolactone Vascular Grafts in Small and Large Animal Models: in vivo and in vitro Analyses

Over the last decade, engineering the polymeric vascular grafts has been extensively studied. Various types of polymers have been used in this field such as synthetic polymers, natural polymers, and polymer blends. Synthetic polymers, such as Polycaprolactone (PCL), have displayed improved mechanical specifications compared to natural polymers. Polycaprolactone is biodegradable polyester that can be blended with another synthetic polymer or a natural polymer to yield even greater enhanced mechanical properties. The mechanical properties of artificial blood vessels play an important role while the vessels are attached to the native vessels in the animal body. Furthermore, the artificial blood vessels must be adequately strong to resist frequent blood circulation and related pressure. The most significant advantage of engineered vascular tissue implants is their ability to grow, remodel, rebuild, and respond to injury. This article serves as a review of the fabrication, specifications, and benefits of various kinds of polycaprolactone grafts. The primary focus is on the in vivo implantation of nanofibrous ones for vascular regeneration in large and small animals. First, the subject of the study was thoroughly investigated, then the search was conducted with a combination of index and text terms. Finally, a number of articles, scientific books, patents, manuals, and university theses were selected and studied, and the obtained data were analyzed, categorized, and edited. PCL polymer has been the most sought-after biodegradable polymer for use as a vascular tissue engineering material.