Heparin Functionalized Injectable Cryogel with Rapid Shape-Recovery Property for Neovascularization

Inseon Kim, Seunghun S. Lee, Sunghoon Bae, Hoyon Lee, Nathaniel S. Hwang

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

78 Scopus citations

Abstract

Cryogel based scaffolds have high porosity with interconnected macropores that may provide cell compatible microenvironment. In addition, cryogel based scaffolds can be utilized in minimally invasive surgery due to its sponge-like properties, including rapid shape recovery and injectability. Herein, we developed an injectable cryogel by conjugating heparin to gelatin as a carrier for vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and fibroblasts in hindlimb ischemic disease. Our gelatin/heparin cryogel showed gelatin concentration-dependent mechanical properties, swelling ratios, interconnected porosities, and elasticities. In addition, controlled release of VEGF led to effective angiogenic responses both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, its sponge-like properties enabled cryogels to be applied as an injectable carrier system for in vivo cells and growth factor delivery. Our heparin functionalized injectable cryogel facilitated the angiogenic potential by facilitating neovascularization in a hindlimb ischemia model.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)2257-2269
Number of pages13
JournalBiomacromolecules
Volume19
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - 11 Jun 2018

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