17th International Fiber and Polymer Research Symposium

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Utilizing Biopolymer Based Cryogels in Biomedical Applications

Authors :

Firuza İdrisova¹ Sultan Bütün Şengel²

1- Eskişehir Osmangazi University 2- Eskişehir Osmangazi University

Keywords :

Cryogel Scaffold،Tissue Engineering،Biomedical Applications

Abstract :

Stem cell-based therapies represent a promising frontier in the realm of regenerative medicine, offering a viable alternative to traditional grafts and organ transplants for addressing tissue loss or damage resulting from various causes such as trauma, dysfunction, or disease. Biomaterials play a pivotal role in directing the differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) by modulating substrate properties, including composition, mechanical characteristics, porosity, and surface topography. Among the diverse array of biomaterials, cryogels emerge as standout contenders. These macroporous three-dimensional polymeric structures are synthesized under cryogenic conditions utilizing a range of polymerization techniques. Their versatility lends them a crucial role in numerous applications, spanning from cancer immunotherapy to tissue engineering and bioseparation. Noteworthy attributes such as flexibility, tunable pore sizes, biocompatibility, and biodegradability underscore the indispensability of cryogels in these domains. The current study embarked on an exhaustive exploration of cryogels, focusing on synthesizing them in intricate 3D architectures through various polymerization methods, encompassing both monomeric and natural polymer sources. Comprehensive characterization of the cryogels and their modified iterations, intended for deployment as tissue scaffolds, was conducted using advanced techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Furthermore, rigorous assessments of biocompatibility were carried out to ascertain the suitability of the prepared cryogels for biomedical applications. Beyond scaffold fabrication, the study delved into the potential of these polymeric structures as carriers for various biomolecules, including drugs, proteins, genes, and growth factors, thus expanding their utility in biomedical engineering endeavors.