Search research articles

ABOUT JoVE

Overview Leadership Blog JoVE Help Center

AUTHORS

Publishing Process Editorial Board Scope & Policies Peer Review FAQ Submit

LIBRARIANS

Testimonials Subscriptions Access Resources Library Advisory Board FAQ

RESEARCH

JoVE Journal Methods Collections JoVE Encyclopedia of Experiments Archive

EDUCATION

JoVE Core JoVE Business JoVE Science Education JoVE Lab Manual Faculty Resource Center Faculty Site

Terms & Conditions of Use

Related Concept Videos

Polymers

Polymers

The word polymer is derived from the Greek words “poly” which means “many” and “mer” which means “parts”. Polymers are long chains of molecules composed of repeating units of smaller molecules, known as monomers. They either occur naturally, such as DNA and proteins, or can be constructed synthetically, like plastics. They have varied structural characteristics, such as linear chains, branched chains, or complex networks, that contribute to the properties that they exhibit. Additionally,...

Bioplastics

Bioplastics

Bioplastics derived from microbial processes present a sustainable alternative to conventional petroleum-based plastics. Among these, polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), particularly polyhydroxybutyrates (PHBs), have emerged as prominent candidates due to their biodegradability and biocompatibility. These polymers are synthesized by a variety of bacteria, such as Cupriavidus necator and Pseudomonas putida, which naturally accumulate PHAs as intracellular carbon and energy reserves, especially under...

You might also read

Related Articles

Articles linked to this work by shared authors, journal, and citation graph.

Sort by

Same author

Integrating an Organocatalyst into a Polymeric Gel Framework for the Continuous Microflow Baylis-Hillman Reaction.

ACS omega·2026

Same author

Nanofiber Mats as Amine-Functionalized Heterogeneous Catalysts in Continuous Microfluidic Reactor Systems.

Gels (Basel, Switzerland)·2026

Same author

Synthesis of Curcumin Derivatives via Knoevenagel Reaction Within a Continuously Driven Microfluidic Reactor Using Polymeric Networks Containing Piperidine as a Catalyst.

Gels (Basel, Switzerland)·2025

Same author

Polymeric Networks Containing Amine Derivatives as Organocatalysts for Knoevenagel Reaction within Continuously Driven Microfluidic Reactors.

Gels (Basel, Switzerland)·2023

Same author

Blends of neem oil based polyesteramide as nanofiber mats to control Culicidae.

RSC advances·2022

Same author

PEGylated ethyl cellulose micelles as a nanocarrier for drug delivery.

RSC advances·2022

Search research articles

Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 25, 2026

Biological Compatibility Profile on Biomaterials for Bone Regeneration

Published on: November 16, 2018

Polyhydroxyalkanoates as biomaterials.

Bhagyashri S Thorat Gadgil¹, Naresh Killi¹, Gundloori V N Rathna¹

¹Polymer Science and Engineering division , CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory , Dr. Homi Bhabha Road, Pashan , Pune , 411008 India .

|August 16, 2018

Summary

Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are versatile biopolymers with excellent biocompatibility and biodegradability. Their unique properties make them promising materials for advanced biomedical applications, including drug delivery and tissue engineering.

More Related Videos

A Zebrafish Embryo Model for In Vivo Visualization and Intravital Analysis of Biomaterial-associated Staphylococcus aureus Infection

A Zebrafish Embryo Model for In Vivo Visualization and Intravital Analysis of Biomaterial-associated Staphylococcus aureus Infection

Published on: January 7, 2019

Accessing the Cytotoxicity and Cell Response to Biomaterials

Accessing the Cytotoxicity and Cell Response to Biomaterials

Published on: July 8, 2021

Related Experiment Videos

Last Updated: Jun 25, 2026

Biological Compatibility Profile on Biomaterials for Bone Regeneration

Published on: November 16, 2018

A Zebrafish Embryo Model for In Vivo Visualization and Intravital Analysis of Biomaterial-associated Staphylococcus aureus Infection

A Zebrafish Embryo Model for In Vivo Visualization and Intravital Analysis of Biomaterial-associated Staphylococcus aureus Infection

Published on: January 7, 2019

Accessing the Cytotoxicity and Cell Response to Biomaterials

Accessing the Cytotoxicity and Cell Response to Biomaterials

Published on: July 8, 2021

Area of Science:

Biomaterials Science
Polymer Chemistry
Biotechnology

Background:

Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are bacterial biopolymers known for biocompatibility, biodegradability, and mechanical strength.
PHAs are increasingly explored for advanced applications due to their ease of production and functionalization.
Their inherent properties make them suitable candidates for various biomedical uses.

Purpose of the Study:

To review the diverse biomedical applications of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs).
To explore the utility of PHAs in both bulk and nano forms for medical innovations.
To present a future outlook on PHAs as advanced biomaterials in research and technology.

Main Methods:

Literature review of PHA synthesis and properties.
Analysis of PHA applications in drug delivery, implants, and tissue engineering.
Evaluation of bulk and nano PHA forms for biomedical potential.

Main Results:

PHAs exhibit significant potential across a spectrum of biomedical applications.
Both bulk and nano-structured PHAs demonstrate suitability for medical devices and regenerative medicine.
The review highlights the versatility and adaptability of PHAs for future innovations.

Conclusions:

Polyhydroxyalkanoates are highly promising biomaterials for the future of medical research and technology.
Continued innovation in PHA functionalization and application will drive advancements in healthcare.
PHAs offer a sustainable and effective alternative for various biomedical needs.