Abstract
In this article, synthesis, mechanical and structural properties of polymeric cryogels, and their composites – materials produced by polymerization in a frozen solvent used as a porogen – are described. The analysis of their porosity and pore structure studied using electron microscopy, confocal laser scanning microscopy, and microcomputed tomography, established their highly interconnected macroporous structure with pore size in the range of 10–200 μm suitable for cell accommodation and growth. The unique interconnecting macroporous structure of cryogels combined with their mechanical strength and ability to be repeatedly hydrated and dehydrated without losing their structural integrity make these materials an attractive object of studies for potential applications in bioseparations and tissue engineering. Examples of such applications for molecular and cell separation and cell growth are discussed. Assessment of cryogel biocompatibility bothin vitroandin vivoconfirms that these materials are very promising candidates for application in the emerging area of regenerative medicine.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Reference module in biomedical sciences |
| Editors | Michael Caplan |
| Place of Publication | Amsterdam |
| Publisher | Elsevier |
| ISBN (Print) | 9780128012383 |
| Publication status | Published - 1 Dec 2014 |
