Adaptable hydrogel networks with reversible linkages for tissue engineering

Adv Mater. 2015 Jul 1;27(25):3717-36. doi: 10.1002/adma.201501558. Epub 2015 May 19.

Abstract

Adaptable hydrogels have recently emerged as a promising platform for three-dimensional (3D) cell encapsulation and culture. In conventional, covalently crosslinked hydrogels, degradation is typically required to allow complex cellular functions to occur, leading to bulk material degradation. In contrast, adaptable hydrogels are formed by reversible crosslinks. Through breaking and re-formation of the reversible linkages, adaptable hydrogels can be locally modified to permit complex cellular functions while maintaining their long-term integrity. In addition, these adaptable materials can have biomimetic viscoelastic properties that make them well suited for several biotechnology and medical applications. In this review, an overview of adaptable-hydrogel design considerations and linkage selections is presented, with a focus on various cell-compatible crosslinking mechanisms that can be exploited to form adaptable hydrogels for tissue engineering.

Keywords: adaptable hydrogels; cell encapsulation; reversible linkages.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Humans
  • Hydrogels* / chemistry
  • Tissue Engineering* / instrumentation
  • Tissue Engineering* / methods
  • Tissue Scaffolds* / chemistry

Substances

  • Hydrogels