| Autor: |
Braemer, V., Lenarz, T., Drexler, J., Bode, T., Paasche, G. |
| Předmět: |
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| Zdroj: |
Journal of Hearing Science; Sep2024, Vol. 14 Issue 3, p124-124, 1/3p |
| Abstrakt: |
Implantation of cochlear implants (CI) triggers various biological reactions in the patient's cochlea. Being unable to remove the foreign structure by itself, the body insulates the implant by surrounding it with connective tissue. Modification of the CI electrodes surfaces is one way to reduce the adhesion of connective tissue. Electrospinning is an electrohydrodynamic process used to generate thin mats. These fine micro networks can be used to alter the surface of CI electrodes. In this study, fiber meshes consisting of the hydrophobic poly(vinylidene fluoride-trifluoroethylene) (PVDF-TrFE) were used to investigate their contribution to electric conductivity and their cytotoxic potential for fibroblasts. The fiber mesh was cut into 0 14 mm circular samples. Conventional SEM-holders were used as sample holders for the electrical measurements. Using a self-constructed chamber with four identical measuring cells, the increase in impedance due to the additional layer of fibers was investigated. In addition, cytotoxicity assays with rectangular samples as described in ISO 10993-12 were performed. For further investigations, model electrodes out of platinum-iridium wire were manufactured such that their surface area resembles that of CI electrodes. These models were embedded in silicone (Sylgard 184) and electrically analysed to test different wettability methods. Measured impedances for the fiber mesh samples show a mean increase in impedances of 225.99 ± 107.09 Ω compared to the reference samples. The only constraint in biocompatibility was found with 100% extraction solution (69 ± 4.88% cell viability). The mean surface area of the model electrodes was 0.386 ± 0.024 mm2 with impedances of about 1 kH (1024.19 ± 107.61 H). Cytotoxic and electric characterisation of PVDF-TrFE electrospun fiber meshes was successfully performed. Reliable model electrodes were manufactured and can be used in further investigations regarding the influence of the fiber mats on the impedance of CI electrodes. Additionally, cell proliferation behaviour on the fiber mats will be investigated to refine the cytotoxic influence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
| Databáze: |
Complementary Index |
| Externí odkaz: |
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