Influence of physical properties of biomaterials on cellular behavior.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

In this study, we evaluated the effect of hydrogel structural properties on proliferation and biosynthesis activity of encapsulated chondrocytes.

Methods

Hydrogels with varying structural and mechanical properties were prepared by photopolymerizing PEGDA precursors having MWs of 3.4 kDa, 6 kDa, 10 kDa, and 20 kDa and were characterized for their swelling ratio, network structure, morphology, and mechanical properties. The effect of hydrogel structural properties on the cellular activity of encapsulated chondrocytes was studied over four weeks.

Results

Varying the molecular weight of PEGDA precursors exhibited a significant effect on the structural and mechanical properties of the hydrogels. Large mesh size was found to support cell proliferation. However, extr

SUBMITTER: Lin S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3099000 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature