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Design and characterization of bi-soft segmented polyurethane microparticles for biomedical application
Elisa Campos1, Rosemeyre Cordeiro, Ana Cristina Santos
1Research Centre for Chemical Processes Engineering and Forest Products (CIEPQPF), Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal. elisajcampos@gmail.com
Colloids and Surfaces. B, Biointerfaces
|August 9, 2011
Summary
New poly(ester urethane urea) microparticles were developed for biomedical uses. These materials show promise as non-biodegradable systems with low toxicity and controlled degradation.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Development of novel polymeric microparticles for biomedical applications is crucial.
- Poly(ester urethane urea)s offer tunable properties for advanced material design.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prepare and characterize two distinct bi-soft segmented poly(ester urethane urea) microparticle formulations.
- To evaluate their potential for biomedical applications, focusing on degradation and biocompatibility.
Main Methods:
- Synthesis of microparticles using poly(propylene glycol), tolylene 2,4-diisocyanate (TDI) or poly(propylene oxide)-based tri-isocyanate (TI) pre-polymers, and poly(ɛ-caprolactone) diol (PCL).
- Characterization using infrared spectroscopy to assess H-bonding and phase separation.
- Evaluation of hydrolytic degradation rates and cytotoxicity against macrophages.
Main Results:
- Infrared spectroscopy indicated a higher degree of phase separation in TDI-microparticles.
- TI-microparticles exhibited a slower rate of hydrolytic degradation.
- TI-microparticles demonstrated a low toxic effect on macrophages.
Conclusions:
- The developed poly(ester urethane urea) microparticles, particularly the TI-based formulation, show potential as non-biodegradable biomedical systems.
- The formulation with slower degradation and low cytotoxicity is a promising candidate for biomedical applications.
