Non cell adhesive photopolymerized cross-linked layers (I): synthesis and characterization

The aim of this study is to design an effective hydrogel, which has good potential for application in the field of tissue regeneration. Ultimately, the polymeric biomaterial will be used as a bottom, non-cell adhering layer of a polymeric scaffold, which will inhibit the adhesion and proliferation of fibroblast cells. A series of terpolymer hydrogels were prepared from MMA/HPOEM/MePOEM monomers based on varying formulations. The gels were polymerized via free radical polymerization under UV and characterized by TGA, DSC and FTIR studies. Furthermore, the double bond conversion, gel content and swelling properties of the polymer were analyzed and correlated to its crosslinking density, which revealed details about the hydrogels character. Finally, cell culture experiments were used to compare the UV-cured polymer to its thermally derived non-functionalized polymer of the same formulation. Inverted optical microscopy was used to demonstrate cell-resistance of both materials with respect to a control Tissue Culture PolyStyrene plate. ©2003 Kluwer Acadamic Publishers