Poly(propylene fumarate)-based materials: Synthesis, functionalization, properties, device fabrication and biomedical...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Poly(propylene fumarate) (PPF) is a biodegradable polymer extensively studied for biomedical applications over 30 years.
• Its controllable mechanical properties, tunable degradation, and biocompatibility make it suitable for various medical devices.
• PPF-based materials are particularly promising for regenerative medicine, especially bone tissue engineering.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of advancements in PPF synthesis, formulation, crosslinking, fabrication, and modification.
• To highlight the impact of these parameters on PPF's biodegradation and biocompatibility.
• To discuss the expanding applications of PPF in regenerative medicine, focusing on bone tissue engineering and bioprinting.

Main Methods:

• Review of literature on PPF synthesis, including ring-opening polymerization for precise molecular control.
• Analysis of 3D printing techniques for fabricating PPF-based scaffolds.
• Examination of post-polymerization and post-printing functionalization strategies.
• Evaluation of biodegradation and biocompatibility studies.

Main Results:

• Ring-opening polymerization allows precise control over PPF molecular mass, distribution, and viscosity, enabling time-certain resorption.
• 3D printing techniques are effectively used for fabricating complex PPF-based scaffolds.
• Novel functionalization methods enhance the utility of PPF in diverse biomedical applications.
• PPF demonstrates significant potential in orthopedics, bone tissue engineering, and as a hydrogel for bioprinting.

Conclusions:

• Significant progress has been made in optimizing PPF synthesis and fabrication for biomedical applications.
• PPF-based materials show great promise for bone tissue engineering and other regenerative medicine strategies.
• Continued research into functionalization and advanced manufacturing techniques will further expand PPF's clinical utility.