MCC Launches Study to Advance Antithrombotic TPE for Medical Devices

In medical devices such as cardiac catheters and extracorporeal circulation circuits, anticoagulants are typically coated on the base resin to prevent blood coagulation and thrombosis-related occlusion. However, since the cost of the coating process can only be justified for certain advanced medical equipment, there is a need for materials that can provide antithrombotic performance at a lower cost.

MCC has accumulated advanced formulations and composite technologies for the medical-grade composite resin "ZELAS™ AMP" over the years and has expanded its global medical material supply system. The key polymer in ZELAS™ AMP is an amphiphilic polymer that combines blood compatibility derived from its hydrophilic structure and substrate affinity derived from its hydrophobic structure. By adding this key polymer ZELAS™ AMP to the resin of medical device substrates (such as polyvinyl chloride, polyurethane, and engineering plastics), it imparts the substrates with anti-thrombogenic properties, low protein adsorption, and low bacterial adhesion.

The Institute of Materials Chemistry and Engineering at Kyushu University specializes in elucidating the structure and function of materials from atomic, molecular, and nanoscale to macroscopic scale, with particular expertise in surface design for medical devices. The Department of Cardiovascular Surgery at Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine is at the forefront of research and development in advanced medical fields such as heart transplantation, assistive circulation, and regenerative medicine.

In this joint research, MCC will focus on providing optimal additive and formulation design for various resins used in medical device substrates with ZELAS™ AMP key polymers. Developed by MCC to meet the needs of healthcare professionals, ZELAS™ AMP aims to reduce the use of anticoagulants through its anti-thrombus-forming properties and eliminate the need for coating processes, thereby lowering the risks and manufacturing costs associated with medical devices that come into direct contact with blood, such as cardiac catheters, extracorporeal circulation circuits, dialysis, and transfusion components.

Under its business vision "KAITEKI Vision 35," MCC identifies new therapeutic technologies and equipment as one of its key business areas, aiming to support new therapies with high-performance medical-grade materials. By collaborating with healthcare professionals to develop the anti-thrombotic thermoplastic elastomer "ZELAS™ AMP," MCC will contribute to enhancing the functionality and safety of medical devices in contact with blood.