Vascugel

Vascugel is an allogeneic cell therapy product consisting of human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs) embedded in a heparinized gelatin matrix. Developed by Pervasis Therapeutics, it is designed to be applied perivascularly during the surgical creation of an arteriovenous (AV) graft or fistula for hemodialysis. The mechanism of action involves the secretion of paracrine factors by the embedded endothelial cells, including nitric oxide, prostacyclin, and heparan sulfate. These factors promote healthy vascular remodeling, inhibit the proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells (intimal hyperplasia), and reduce inflammation and thrombosis at the site of vascular injury. Despite promising early results, development was discontinued following Phase 2 clinical trials that failed to demonstrate significant improvement in primary patency compared to placebo.

Brand names

Vascugel

Other names

Allogeneic endothelial cells in a heparinized gelatin matrix