In vitro assays and development strategies for magnesium-based biodegradable cardiovascular stent: A decade of review

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains a leading global cause of mortality, underscoring the urgent need for innovative therapeutic solutions. Biodegradable magnesium-based stents (BMgS) have emerged as groundbreaking alternatives for coronary artery disease, offering temporary vascular support with safe biodegradation to minimize complications associated with permanent implants. Over the past decade, significant strides have been made in BMgS research, particularly in material science, advanced manufacturing techniques, and surface modifications. However, challenges such as uncontrolled degradation rates, insufficient mechanical strength, and limited biocompatibility continue to hinder their clinical adoption. This review provides a comprehensive and critical analysis of BMgS development advancements, with a particular focus on in vitro testing methodologies. Core areas include corrosion performance evaluation, mechanical property testing, and biocompatibility assessments, highlighting innovative approaches such as novel corrosion reactors, finite element analysis (FEA), and advanced biological assays. Development strategies center on alloy optimization (Mg-Zn and Mg-RE systems), cutting-edge manufacturing processes, and sophisticated surface modifications, including polymer, inorganic, and composite coatings, all tailored to enhance stent functionality. By synthesizing recent progress, this review not only identifies persistent challenges but also provides actionable insights for overcoming them. These findings serve as a valuable resource for researchers and industry stakeholders, paving the way for next-generation BMgS that strive to revolutionize cardiovascular care and improve patient outcomes.