Hydrogels with tailorable anisotropic microporous architecture for bone engineering
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Volume Title
Kemian tekniikan korkeakoulu |
Master's thesis
Authors
Date
2024-08-29
Department
Major/Subject
Mcode
Degree programme
Master's Programme in Biological and Chemical Engineering for a Sustainable Bioeconomy
Language
en
Pages
46
Series
Abstract
This thesis delves into the innovative development of anisotropic hydrogels tailored for bone regeneration, utilizing surface-deacetylated chitin nano-fibers (SDA-ChNFs) through a systematic freeze-casting process. By utilizing a 1.25% concentration of SDA-ChNFs and crosslinking with sodium tripolyphosphate (STP), I enhanced the mechanical and morphological properties of the hydrogels. Notably, freezing the hydrogels at -20°C, as opposed to -196°C, resulted in the formation of larger, uniformly aniso-tropic pores while preserving comparable mechanical integrity. These enhanced pore structures are vital for promoting cell growth, nutrient diffusion, and waste elimination, closely emulating the natural bone environment. In addition, thawing at refrigerator temperatures (4°C) further refined pore uniformity and improved structural strength. Biomineralization assessments using simulated body fluid (SBF) affirmed the hydrogels' proficiency in supporting mineral deposition, thereby highlighting their promise in bone tissue engineering. In this thesis I will outline the pathway to creating these anisotropic hydrogels, focusing on optimizing the concentration of SDA-ChNFs, selecting the ideal crosslinker, and fine-tuning the freezing and thawing conditions. The impact of these parameters was evaluated through comprehensive morphological, mechanical, and rheological analyses. By emphasizing the critical importance of material and process optimization, this thesis gives insights into the development of hydrogels with compatible porosity and pore sizes for bone and tissue engineering.Description
Supervisor
Kontturi, EeroThesis advisor
Keerakkara Arumughan, VishnuKeywords
strong hydrogels, bone regeneration, phosphate crosslinkers, chitin, directional freezing