A Tissue‐Penetrating Double Network Restores the Mechanical Properties of Degenerated Articular Cartilage. Issue 13 (2nd March 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cooper, Benjamin G.; Stewart, Rachel C.; Burstein, Deborah; Snyder, Brian D.; Grinstaff, Mark W.
• Is Part Of: Angewandte Chemie international edition. Volume 55:Issue 13(2016)
• Page Start: 4226
• Page End: 4230
• Publication Date: 2016-03-02
• Subjects: biomaterials -- cartilage -- double networks -- mechanical properties -- polymers; Chemistry -- Periodicals; 540
• DOI: 10.1002/anie.201511767
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1433-7851

Abstract

Abstract: Incorporation of an interpenetrating polymer network into an existing single polymer network enables augmentation of the original substrate's mechanical properties, and translation of this concept from purely synthetic materials to natural–synthetic hybrid systems provides the opportunity to reinforce mechanical properties of bulk biological substrates. In many disease states, the mechanical properties of bodily tissues deteriorate rendering them prone to further material failure. Herein, a tissue‐supplementing technique is described in which an interpenetrating biomimetic hydrogel is polymerized in situ throughout cartilage tissue. The treatment restores the inferior compressive properties of osteoarthritic cartilage to that of healthy cartilage, preferentially localizing to weaker regions of tissue. Furthermore, the treatment technique preserves cartilage under harsh articulation conditions, showing promise as a materials‐based treatment for early‐stage osteoarthritis. Abstract : Bring in the reinforcements : Softened and wear‐prone articular cartilage is reinforced by a semi‐natural–semi‐synthetic interpenetrating polymer network. In situ photopolymerization of biomimetic monomers within the tissue increases cartilage strength and wear‐resistance. This biomaterials‐based approach may hold promise for treating early stage osteoarthritis.