Self-recovering dual cross-linked hydrogels based on bioorthogonal click chemistry and ionic interactions.

The biocompatible, injectable and high water-swollen nature of hydrogels makes them a popular candidate to imitate the extracellular matrix (ECM) for tissue engineering both in vitro and in vivo. However, commonly used covalently cross-linked hydrogels, despite their stability and tunability, are elastic and deteriorate as bulk material degrades which would impair proper cell function. To improve these deficiencies, here, we present a self-recovering cross-linked hydrogel formed instantaneously with functionalized poly(ethylene glycol) as a basis.

Comparison of Bioorthogonally Cross-Linked Hydrogels for Cell Encapsulation.

Hydrogels are water-saturated polymer networks and extensively used in drug delivery, tissue repair engineering, and cell cultures. For encapsulation of drugs or cells, the possibility to form hydrogels is very much desired. This can be achieved in numerous ways, including use of bioorthogonal chemistry to create polymer networks.

Preparation and Performance of Poly(D,L-lactic acid)–Polyethylene Glycol–Poly(D,L-lactic acid) Electrospun Fibrous Membranes for Drug Release.

In this study, poly(D,L-lactic acid)–polyethylene glycol–poly(D,L-lactic acid), hereafter referred to as PDLLA–PEG–PDLLA, triblock copolymer membranes were prepared by electrospinning. Scanning electron microscopy images revealed the morphology of the microfibers, which had a diameter ranging from 300 to 900 nm. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was employed for structural analysis of the PDLLA–PEG–PDLLA/florfenicol (FF) membranes, which exhibited three absorption peaks at 3455, 1684, and 1533 cm−1, respectively, indicating that the triblock copolymer and FF are very well blended in the composite membranes.