Hydrogels in Regenerative Medicine

摘要: Hydrogels are crosslinked polymeric networks containing hydrophilic groups that promote swelling due to interaction with water [1]. While hydrogels heavily used in the field of regenerative medicine, their application biomedical systems is not new. In fact, it has been suggested they were truly first polymer materials be developed for use man [2]. They have clinical applications since 1960s, initially ocular including contact lenses and intraocular favorable oxygen permeability lack irritation leading inflammation foreign body response, which was observed other plastics [3]. Before concept tissue engineering medicine had gained traction, cell encapsulation [4]. also utilized extensively clinic wound healing permeability, high content, ability shield wounds from external agents. Perhaps largest research focus utility found as controlled release systems. This combination led increasing uses applications.