Research & Development of Hydrogel Scaffolds
Designing bioactive scaffolds with optimal characteristics is one of the key factors for the success of tissue engineering. Recently, hydrogels have received considerable interest as leading candidates for engineered tissue scaffolds due to their unique compositional and structural similarities to the natural extracellular matrix (ECM), as well as their desirable framework for cellular proliferation and survival. Alfa Chemistry has been specializing in biomedicine for many years, and our team of experienced experts has deep insights into hydrogel scaffolds. From the design, optimization to manufacturing of hydrogel scaffolds, our team provides you with one-stop service. We are confident of leading your hydrogel scaffolds to the leading level in the industry.
Key Functions of Hydrogel Scaffolds
The key functions of hydrogel scaffolds include but are not limited to the following.
- Promote cell adhesion.
- Encourage cell-biomaterial interactions.
- Confer a negligible inflammation or toxicity in vivo.
- Control the structure and function of engineered tissue.
- Deliver the seeded cells to the desired site in the patient's body.
- Permit adequate transport of gases, nutrients and growth factors to ensure cell survival, proliferation, and differentiation.
Design Criteria for Hydrogel Scaffolds
Hydrogel scaffolds in tissue engineering must meet a number of design criteria to simulate the ECM. For example, hydrogel scaffolds should provide cell growth with a 3D architecture, which better mimics natural tissues and allows for morphology and gene expression that cannot be attained in 2D structures. The design criteria also include biodegradation, biocompatibility, pore size and porosity extent, mechanical properties, surface properties, etc. In addition, accessibility and commercial feasibility should be considered in the research & development of hydrogel scaffolds for tissue engineering purposes.
Biodegradation
In many cases, the scaffold's life would be until degradation is complete. Therefore, the rate and extent of biodegradation are key considerations for hydrogel design in tissue engineering.
Biocompatibility
Biocompatibility means that no or very limited harmful immunological, toxic, or foreign body responses take place as a result of hydrogel scaffolds.
Pore size and porosity extent
Pore size and porosity extent are related to cell ingrowth, cell distribution, and neovascularization of the matrix.
Mechanical properties
As scaffold materials for tissue engineering, the mechanical properties of hydrogels have a significant effect on either attached or encapsulated cells.
Surface properties
The surface of scaffolds is the initial and primary site of interaction with surrounding cells and tissues. Therefore, both physicochemical and topographical surface properties of hydrogel scaffolds are vital parameters in controlling and affecting cellular adhesion and proliferation.
With advanced research facilities and quality control processes, our team has the ability to provide you with reliable and innovative solutions for the design and evaluation of hydrogel scaffolds. If you would like more detailed information about our research and development services for hydrogel scaffolds, please do not hesitate to contact us and we will be happy to assist you.
Please kindly note that our products and services are for research use only.
