Chitosan-based Hydrogels with Improved Properties
OSU researchers have developed a multi-layered injectable tissuescaffold (hydrogel) which can be used as a regeneration platform for defective tissuessuch as cartilage in the knee. This hydrogel could be used in conjunction withmicrofracture surgery, or be a stand-alone procedure reducing the need forinvasive surgeries. This multi-layered gel is anisotropic in nature, and mimicsthe four zones of native cartilage tissue. By recreating the native environmentof cartilage tissues, cells seeded within the hydrogel should be driven to performthe appropriate cellular functions. The end result of using this hydrogel isthat engineered tissue will closely mimic native cartilage that will possessthe ability to resist deterioration over the long run. Furthermore, the optionof a minimally invasive procedure may lead to less pain, decreased recoverytime and better motion due to less scar tissue formation. This hydrogel also has the potential to beused in multiple tissue types including bone, cartilage, heart, and spinaltissues, as well as blood vessels.
· Low cost· Minimally-invasive optionthat is compatible with current repair options· Potentially lowers the riskof infection and pain to the patient· Anisotropic gel mimicsnative cartilage tissue
· Cartilagerepair· Bone, bloodvessel, spinal and Cardiac muscle tissue repair
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USA
