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Cross-linking of amniotic membranes
T Fujisato1, K Tomihata, Y Tabata
1Institute for Frontier Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Japan.
Journal of Biomaterials Science. Polymer Edition
|December 22, 1999
Summary
Cross-linking human amniotic membrane with glutaraldehyde (GA) improved its degradation resistance without affecting tensile properties or protein permeability. Radiation cross-linking, however, reduced tensile strength and was less effective in slowing degradation.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Tissue Engineering
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Human amniotic membrane (HAM) is a promising biomaterial for tissue regeneration.
- Understanding the effects of cross-linking on HAM properties is crucial for optimizing its clinical applications.
- Cross-linking aims to enhance mechanical stability and control degradation rates of biomaterials.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of chemical (glutaraldehyde - GA) and radiation (gamma-ray, electron beam) cross-linking on the physicochemical and biodegradation properties of HAM.
- To evaluate the effect of cross-linking methods on HAM's tensile strength, water content, protein permeability, and degradation profile.
- To assess the in vivo tissue response to GA-cross-linked HAM.
Main Methods:
- HAM samples were cross-linked using gamma-ray, electron beam irradiation, and glutaraldehyde (GA).
- Physicochemical properties including tensile strength, elongation at break, and water content were measured.
- Protein permeation and in vitro degradation rates were assessed.
- Subcutaneous implantation in rats was performed to evaluate tissue response.
Main Results:
- Radiation cross-linking decreased tensile strength and elongation at break, likely due to collagen chain scission.
- GA cross-linking did not significantly alter tensile properties, water content, or protein permeability, attributed to cross-linking within the collagen fiber mesh.
- Radiation cross-linking was less effective in retarding degradation compared to GA cross-linking.
- GA-cross-linked HAM showed slower degradation with increasing GA concentration and elicited a mild tissue response in vivo.
Conclusions:
- GA cross-linking offers a method to enhance HAM's degradation resistance without compromising key structural and functional properties.
- Radiation cross-linking negatively impacts HAM's mechanical integrity.
- The unique fibrous mesh structure of HAM influences its response to cross-linking, maintaining permeability and water content.
- GA-cross-linked HAM demonstrates potential as a stable and biocompatible biomaterial for tissue engineering applications.