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Shear-Induced Cycloreversion Leading to Shear-Thinning and Autonomous Self-Healing in an Injectable, Shape-Holding
Mahsa Jamadi Khiabani1, Sareh Soroushzadeh2, Ardeshir Talebi2
1Macromolecular Chemistry, Department of Chemistry─Ångström Laboratory, Uppsala University, Box 538, 751 21 Uppsala, Sweden.
ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces
|October 8, 2024
Summary
This study introduces a novel collagen-based injectable hydrogel for tissue engineering. This advanced biomaterial offers extended injectability, autonomous self-healing, and stable shape retention, addressing key limitations in the field.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Tissue Engineering
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Injectable hydrogels are crucial for cell encapsulation in tissue engineering.
- Current hydrogels often lack sufficient injectability time windows, self-healing capabilities, and shape stability.
- Extracellular matrix (ECM) derived hydrogels are highly desirable but face challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop an injectable, collagen-based hydrogel with enhanced properties for tissue engineering applications.
- To overcome limitations of current injectable hydrogels, specifically in injectability, self-healing, and shape retention.
- To create a versatile biomaterial for in vivo applications.
Main Methods:
- Development of a collagen-based hydrogel cross-linked via furan-maleimide cycloaddition.
- Evaluation of injectability over an extended time window (up to 48 hours).
- Assessment of autonomous self-healing properties post-injection.
- Testing of shape and size retention in aqueous conditions.
- Degradation studies using collagenase.
- In vitro biocompatibility testing with cell cultures.
- In vivo subcutaneous implantation in rats for resorbability and inflammation assessment.
Main Results:
- The developed hydrogel demonstrated injectability up to 48 hours post-preparation.
- Complete autonomous self-healing of the hydrogel was observed after injection.
- The hydrogel exhibited excellent shape and size retention over several years in buffer.
- Rapid degradation within hours upon collagenase treatment.
- Confirmed biocompatibility through in vitro cell culture.
- Complete in vivo resorbability without inducing inflammation in rats.
Conclusions:
- The novel collagen-based hydrogel successfully meets critical criteria for advanced tissue engineering.
- This biomaterial offers a promising solution for cell encapsulation with improved injectability, self-healing, and stability.
- The hydrogel's biocompatibility and resorbability make it suitable for in vivo applications.
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