Journal of Biotechnology & Biomaterials
Open Access

Abstract

Cell migration is an integrated molecular process dependent on both biochemical (ligand density) and biophysical (mechanical properties) cues arising from the surrounding extracellular matrix (ECM). Porosity of the matrix also influences ability of the cells to migrate within the matrix. We have developed a semi-synthetic hydrogel matrix based on blending of a synthetic and a naturally occurring polymer to form macroporous cryogels. Polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA) is a synthetic polymer which is inert to protein adsorption and cell adhesion while gelatin methacrylate (GelMA) is a modified form of gelatin which contains ligand sites that promote cell adhesion. Macroporous cryogels can be prepared by cross-linking polymers at very low temperature resulting in phase separation between polymer and water. The water phase forms ice crystals at low temperatures and this result in a porous network upon thawing of gels. Blended hydrogels were characterized for their pore size, mechanical properties and swelling ratio. We also found that the blending of PEGDA with GelMA improved cell adhesion and viability of cells seeded on the porous scaffolds. This cryogel system can be used for tissue engineering applications.

Biography

Email: mathewpeter@iitb.ac.in