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Zinc-Based Biodegradable Stents with Fewer Side Effects

Institution: Michigan Technological University
Funders (5)
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Why This Project Is Important 

Every year, more than 900,000 Americans will have a heart attack. To reduce the chance of having a heart attack in the first place, or preventing another one from happening, a permanent stent is implanted in the coronary artery to treat narrowed or weakened arteries. However, these permanent stents may cause blood clots or inflammation. I am working on developing a zinc-based bioabsorbable stent that may work much better and with fewer side effects.

Project Description 

Stents are small expandable tubes, made out of stainless steel or other types of metallic alloys, used to treat narrowed or weakened arteries in the body. However, they may be harmful to the body. I am working on developing zinc-based bioabsorbable stents that may work much better and with fewer side effects than iron or magnesium, which have been the materials most studied for stents.

For example, a permanent stent can cause intermittent inflammation and clotting at the implant site. The tiny metal segments that make up the stent can break and end up poking the arterial wall. I am developing a bioabsorbable stent that would gradually—and harmlessly—dissolve after the blood vessel is healed, eliminating side effects.

Meet the Researcher

Jeremy Goldman

Currently, I'm an Associate Professor in the Biomedical Engineering department at Michigan Technological University. My research interests include the biology and physiology of the lymphatic and blood vascular systems including vascular regeneration, remodeling, and pathology.



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$2,150
of $7,000 fund goal
The average donation for this project is $430
0
days left
31%
funded
$500
last
Funding is Closed

What Your Donation Can Help Us Do: 

  • Purchase supplies
  • Save lives!
Although there are no rewards for this project, all donors will receive an email receipt with tax-deduction information.

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