pH-responsive scaffolds for tissue regeneration: In vivo performance

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Polymer Chemistry

Background:

• pH is a critical factor in tissue regeneration, influencing healing processes.
• In vitro studies of pH-sensitive scaffolds are abundant, but in vivo data is limited.
• The complex in vivo environment presents challenges for mimicking pH changes accurately.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advances in pH-responsive polymer-based scaffolds for in vivo tissue regeneration.
• To highlight strategies for developing scaffolds that actively contribute to healing by responding to pH variations.
• To discuss the potential for clinical translation of these advanced biomaterials.

Main Methods:

• Review of literature on pH-responsive scaffolds for wound and bone healing.
• Analysis of strategies including changes in ionization, reversible cross-linkers, coatings, and gas production.
• Examination of performance data from relevant animal models.

Main Results:

• Several strategies effectively create pH-responsive scaffolds, including ionizable polymers, clays, reversible cross-linkers, coatings, and CO2 generation.
• These scaffolds have demonstrated in vivo efficacy in promoting wound and bone healing in animal models.
• The development of biocompatible and eco-friendly pH-responsive materials is advancing.

Conclusions:

• pH-responsive scaffolds offer significant potential for improving in vivo tissue regeneration.
• Exploiting pH changes through various strategies can accelerate healing and prevent chronification.
• Continued research and development show a promising future for clinical applications of these biomaterials.