In vivo study of lyophilized bioprostheses: 3 month follow-up in young sheep.

Objective: Glutaraldehyde is currently used in bovine pericardium bioprosthesis to improve mechanical and immunogenic properties. Lyophilization is a process that may decrease aldehyde residues in the glutaraldehyde treated pericardium decreasing cytotoxicity and enhancing resistance to calcification. The aim of this study is to evaluate bioprosthetic heart valves calcification in adolescent sheep and to study the potential of lyophilization as a mechanism to protect calcification.

Effects of polyethylene glycol attachment on physicochemical and biological stability of E. coli L-asparaginase.

L-asparaginase obtained from E. coli strains is an important enzyme widely used in leukemia treatment. However, hypersensitivity reactions must be considered a relevant adverse effect of asparaginase therapy.