IN-VITRO PROLIFERATION AND ADHESION OF BASIC FIBROBLAST GROWTH FACTOR-PRODUCING FIBROBLASTS ON PLATINUM COILS

PURPOSE: To evaluate the growth and adhesion characteristics in vitro of genetically modified, basic fibroblast growth factor-producing fibr oblasts on platinum detachable coils. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Coils of two sizes were coated with laminin, poly-L-lysine, fibronectin, and ty pe I and type IV collagen and were cultured with basic fibroblast grow th factor-secreting fibroblasts. Type I collagen strands were inserted in the lumen of some coils. Cellular proliferation and adherence duri ng passage of coils through microcatheters were studied with both ligh t and scanning electron microscopy. Growth factor concentration in the culture medium was measured. RESULTS: Rapid cellular proliferation wa s noted on all coated coils except those coated with type IV collagen. Proliferation on uncoated coils was slightly slower than on most coat ed coils, although confluent cell layers were present on uncoated larg er-diameter coils within 48 hours. Cells had a marked propensity to gr ow between the primary coil windings into the coil lumen, except in co ils that contained collagen filaments. Passage through microcatheters caused widespread stripping of cells from the outer surface of coils, especially the uncoated samples. Viable cells remained in the coil lum en. Supernatant contained high concentrations of growth factor. CONCLU SION: Platinum embolic coils are a promising mechanism of cell deliver y for stimulation of scar formation or other desirable biologic effect s.