Peijia Medical Technology (Suzhou) has teamed up with dsm-firmenich Biomedical business to advance the research and development (R&D) of polymer heart valve materials.
The parties have signed a “strategic innovation partnership agreement” in this regard, seeking “transformation” in the medical device materials sector globally.
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Under this long-term collaboration, both companies will work alongside for R&D of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) heart valve materials.
Leveraging dsm-firmenich’s biomaterials, the companies’ R&D teams will partner on the development and design of “high-end” medical device products.
Additionally, they will focus on optimising the important raw material properties, R&D of new materials, and developing manufacturing processes and technologies based on UHMWPE materials.
UHMWPE is said to be a lightweight and “high-strength” polymer material, and using ultra-fine fibres combined with weaving and multi-layer fusion technologies, polymer valve materials can be developed that could potentially replace the current animal-derived heart valve materials.
Polymer valve materials are inorganic and non-biological, with benefits in longevity and suitability for younger individuals. They are expected to extend product lifespan, minimise expenses, and enable mass production.
Peijia Medical’s independently developed polymer valve leverages a five-layer bionic polymer fibre fabric, mimicking human valve leaflets.
The company noted that the product has shown “stable hemodynamics” and durability after extensive testing, with an anticipated lifespan surpassing present biological valve materials.
The polymer valve is now moving towards clinical trials after animal testing.
Peijia Medical, a Chinese firm, specialises in medical devices for structural heart disease and cerebrovascular intervention.
DSM-Firmenich Biomedical business, headquartered in the US, with operations in the Netherlands and China, brings “expertise” in biomaterials to the partnership.
dsm-firmenich biomedical division president Paul Spencer said: “At dsm-firmenich, we are committed to advancing vascular care with innovative biomaterial solutions that support the goals of driving better clinical outcomes, reducing healthcare costs, and improving the lives of patients worldwide.”
Peijia Medical chief operating officer Pan Kongrong noted that polymer valve leaflet material development, once completed, would be applied across product lines.
