Biodegradable polyurethanes: synthesis and applications in regenerative medicine

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Polymer Chemistry

Background:

• Biostable polyurethanes (PURs) have been used in biomedical devices since the 1960s.
• Recent research focuses on biodegradable PURs for regenerative medicine applications.
• Biodegradable PURs are designed for controlled in vivo degradation and tissue regeneration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advances in the synthesis of biodegradable polyurethanes.
• To summarize the application of biodegradable PURs as scaffolds in regenerative medicine.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of tissue-engineered scaffolds from biodegradable PURs using techniques like electrospinning and CO2 foaming.
• In vitro and in vivo evaluation of cell and tissue ingrowth.
• Assessment of controlled degradation into non-cytotoxic products.

Main Results:

• Biodegradable PURs support cell and tissue ingrowth.
• These materials undergo controlled degradation into non-toxic byproducts.
• Tunable properties of biodegradable PURs make them suitable for tissue regeneration.

Conclusions:

• Biodegradable polyurethanes offer significant potential as scaffolds for tissue regeneration.
• Advances in synthesis and fabrication are expanding their applications in regenerative medicine.