23 Jul IMPROVED HYDROGEL FOR TISSUE ENGINEERING
Abstract
This invention provides compositions for use in implanting into an animal comprising a biodegradable, biocompatible polymer which forms a hydrogel upon cross-linking. In a preferred mode, the polymer is cross-linked by multivalent ions; more preferably, a soluble salt of a multivalent ion and a sparingly soluble salt of a multivalent ion, these components being combined into a mixture which forms a partially hardened, injectable hydrogel, the consistency of the mixture being suitable for implanting the partially hardened hydrogel mixture into the animal, where the implanted, partially hardened hydrogel forms in situ a fully hardened hydrogel. Preferably, the mixture also contains a biocompatible sequestrant which competes with the biocompatible polymer for binding of the multivalent cross-linking ion. The composition may or may not contain living cells. The invention also provides methods for implanting the composition in an animal, optionally as an implant containing living cells.
Year: 1998
Country: WO
Doc No: 9825653