Artificial blood vessels developed from jatropha

16-Apr-10

Indian researchers are working towards indigenously developing blood vessels. A biodegradable polymer recently developed from Jatropha (a drought-resistant perennial plant that grows even in sandy and saline conditions) has attracted researchers. The Central Salt Marine Chemicals and Research Institute (CSMCRI) in Bhavnagar has developed a process to develop biodegradable polymers almost zero-cost using one of the byproducts of Jatropha. The Indian Institute of Technology-Madras has now shown an interest in a collaboration with CSMCRI to develop artificial blood vessels. IIT M has so far been offering expertise to several Indian and foreign automotive manufacturers to develop efficient vehicles that run on bio-diesel sourced from Jatropha. Conventioanl artificial blood vessels generally comprises of a woven, braided or knitted fabric structure. They are tubes made from synthetic (chemically produced) materials to restore blood circulation. The polymer could be used to spin thin hollow fibres which could act as a substitute for blood vessels. Sri Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences & Technology (SCTIMST), a Kerala-based institute is also looking at possibilities to develop nano particulate systems which could be used in developing medical instruments for targeted delivery of drugs.