|
| ||
|
|
||
Biodegradable Polymers (biodegradable + polymer)
Kinds of Biodegradable Polymers Selected AbstractsAnnealing of Biodegradable Polymer Induced by Femtosecond Laser Micromachining,ADVANCED ENGINEERING MATERIALS, Issue 4 2010Wai Yee Yeong Abstract Femtosecond laser is a potential tool for net shape processing of biodegradable polymers. However, laser processing of polymeric material is still a challenge and the effects induced by laser ablation needs to be investigated. Poly(, -caprolactone) was micromachined at high fluence and the heat affected zone was characterized. Two different phases of microstructure, namely the annealed spherulite zone and the amorphous zone, are found. [source] Biodegradable polymers: An updateISRAEL JOURNAL OF CHEMISTRY, Issue 4 2005Ariella Shikanov The use of polymeric materials for the administration of pharmaceuticals, and as biomedical devices has increased dramatically. This review focuses on synthetic biodegradable polymers of current interest for medical use, based on ester and anhydride bonds. Special attention is given to factors affecting biodegradation, including: polymer structure, morphology, molecular weight, radiation, and chemical treatment, as well as the effects of drugs and plasticizers added to the polymer mass. The toxicity and biocompatibility of the polymers and their current and future applications in medicine are also briefly reviewed. [source] Biodegradable polymers based on renewable resources.JOURNAL OF POLYMER SCIENCE (IN TWO SECTIONS), Issue 17 2005Abstract Novel polycarbonates, with pendant functional groups, based on 1,4:3,6-dianhydrohexitols and L -tartaric acid derivatives were synthesized. Solution polycondensations of 1,4:3,6-dianhydro-bis- O -(p -nitrophenoxycarbonyl)hexitols and 2,3-di- O -methyl- L -threitol or 2,3- O -isopropylidene- L -threitol afforded polycarbonates having pendant methoxy or isopropylidene groups, respectively, with number average molecular weight (Mn) values up to 3.61 × 104. Subsequent acid-catalyzed deprotection of isopropylidene groups gave well-defined polycarbonates having pendant hydroxyl groups regularly distributed along the polymer chain. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) demonstrated that all the polycarbonates were amorphous with glass transition temperatures ranging from 57 to 98 °C. Degradability of the polycarbonates was assessed by hydrolysis test in phosphate buffer solution at 37 °C and by biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) measurements in an activated sludge at 25 °C. In both tests, the polycarbonates with pendant hydroxyl groups were degraded much faster than the polycarbonates with pendant methoxy and isopropylidene groups. It is noteworthy that degradation of the polycarbonates with pendant hydroxyl groups was remarkably fast. They were completely degraded within only 150 min in a phosphate buffer solution and their BOD-biodegradability reached nearly 70% in an activated sludge after 28 days. The degradation behavior of the polycarbonates is discussed in terms of their chemical and physical properties. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 43: 3909,3919, 2005 [source] Biodegradable polymers with variable architectures via ring-expansion polymerizationJOURNAL OF POLYMER SCIENCE (IN TWO SECTIONS), Issue 19 2004Hans R. Kricheldorf Abstract Kinetically controlled ring-expansion polymerizations (REPs) are defined syntheses generating cyclic oligomers and polymers without linear intermediates and without equilibration reactions. This review reports syntheses of cyclic metal alkoxides and their use as initiators for REPs of lactones, cyclic diesters, and cyclocarbonates. In addition to homopolyesters, telechelic oligoesters or polyesters, random copolyesters, and A,B,A triblock copolymers can be prepared by these REPs. The in situ combination of REPs with condensation (mostly acylation) reactions allows a broad variation of end groups. The in situ combination of REPs with polycondensation enables various chain-extension reactions, including the syntheses of multiblock copolymers. With spirocyclic initiators, four-armed stars with functional end groups may be prepared. The in situ combination of REPs with condensation reactions of trifunctional or multifunctional reagents makes a broad variety of networks accessible. The average segment lengths may be controlled via the monomer/initiator ratios of the REP. All materials produced via the aforementioned REP processes are biodegradable and nontoxic, and this allows for biomedical and pharmaceutical applications. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 42: 4723,4742, 2004 [source] Biodegradable polymers applied in tissue engineering research: a reviewPOLYMER INTERNATIONAL, Issue 2 2007Monique Martina Abstract Typical applications and research areas of polymeric biomaterials include tissue replacement, tissue augmentation, tissue support, and drug delivery. In many cases the body needs only the temporary presence of a device/biomaterial, in which instance biodegradable and certain partially biodegradable polymeric materials are better alternatives than biostable ones. Recent treatment concepts based on scaffold-based tissue engineering principles differ from standard tissue replacement and drug therapies as the engineered tissue aims not only to repair but also regenerate the target tissue. Cells have been cultured outside the body for many years; however, it has only recently become possible for scientists and engineers to grow complex three-dimensional tissue grafts to meet clinical needs. New generations of scaffolds based on synthetic and natural polymers are being developed and evaluated at a rapid pace, aimed at mimicking the structural characteristics of natural extracellular matrix. This review focuses on scaffolds made of more recently developed synthetic polymers for tissue engineering applications. Currently, the design and fabrication of biodegradable synthetic scaffolds is driven by four material categories: (i) common clinically established polymers, including polyglycolide, polylactides, polycaprolactone; (ii) novel di- and tri-block polymers; (iii) newly synthesized or studied polymeric biomaterials, such as polyorthoester, polyanhydrides, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polypyrroles, poly(ether ester amide)s, elastic shape-memory polymers; and (iv) biomimetic materials, supramolecular polymers formed by self-assembly, and matrices presenting distinctive or a variety of biochemical cues. This paper aims to review the latest developments from a scaffold material perspective, mainly pertaining to categories (ii) and (iii) listed above. Copyright © 2006 Society of Chemical Industry [source] Nanotemplating of Biodegradable Polymer Membranes for Constant-Rate Drug DeliveryADVANCED MATERIALS, Issue 21 2010Daniel A. Bernards A nanoporous biodegradable polymer (polycaprolactone) is fabricated utilizing a zinc oxide nanotemplate (see figure). Chemical characterization verifies removal of the template, and preliminary tests on the cytotoxicity demonstrate basic biocompatibility. Diffusion of a model small molecule and a protein are shown to be first and zero order, respectively, indicating these nanoporous membranes may be useful for controlled release of protein-based therapeutics. [source] Production of polyhydroxyalkanoates: the future green materials of choiceJOURNAL OF CHEMICAL TECHNOLOGY & BIOTECHNOLOGY, Issue 6 2010Everest Akaraonye Abstract Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) have recently been the focus of attention as a biodegradable and biocompatible substitute for conventional non degradable plastics. The cost of large-scale production of these polymers has inhibited its widespread use. Thus, economical, large-scale production of PHAs is currently being studied intensively. Various bacterial strains, either wild-type or recombinant have been utilized with a wide spectrum of utilizable carbon sources. New fermentation strategies have been developed for the efficient production of PHAs at high concentration and productivity. With the current advances, PHAs can now be produced to a concentration of 80 g L,1 with productivities greater than 4 g PHA L,1 h,1. These advances will further lower the production cost of PHAs and allow this family of polymers to become a leading biodegradable polymer in the near future. This review describes the properties of PHAs, their uses, the various attempts towards the production of PHAs, focusing on the utilization of cheap substrates and the development of different fermentation strategies for the production of these polymers, an essential step forward towards their widespread use. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry [source] The Short-Term Effect on Restenosis and Thrombosis of a Cobalt-Chromium Stent Eluting Two Drugs in a Porcine Coronary Artery ModelJOURNAL OF INTERVENTIONAL CARDIOLOGY, Issue 5 2009YINGYING HUANG Ph.D. The aim of this article was to study the effect of dual drug-eluting stent (DES) on both restenosis and thrombosis in a porcine coronary artery model. This study reports on the use of two drugs coated on the stent to simultaneously minimize both restenosis and thrombosis. The DES was prepared by spray coating a bare metal stent with a biodegradable polymer loaded with sirolimus and triflusal, to treat against restenosis and thrombosis, respectively. The two-layered dual drug-coated stent was characterized in vitro for surface properties before and after expansion, as well as for possible delamination by cross-sectioning the stent in vitro. In vivo animal studies (in a pig model) were then performed for acute thrombosis, inflammation, and restenosis. The results show a significant reduction in restenosis with a stent coated with both drugs compared with the controls (a bare metal stent, a sirolimus-coated, and a pure polymer-coated stent). The reduction in restenosis with a sirolimus/triflusal-eluting stent is associated with an inhibition of inflammation and thrombus formation, suggesting that such dual DES have a role to play for the treatment of coronary artery diseases. [source] Perspective on biomaterials used in the surgical treatment of morbid obesityOBESITY REVIEWS, Issue 3 2009J. A. Henry Summary Morbid obesity is defined as having a body mass index greater than or equal to 40.0 kg m,2, or 37.0 kg m,2 with comorbidities. Bariatric surgery remains the most effective treatment for morbid obesity. Bariatric procedures such as sleeve gastrectomy, vertical banded gastroplasty and adjustable gastric banding all generate excess body-weight loss typically over 3,5 years. The biomaterials used during these procedures, namely silicone, polypropylene, expanded polytetrafluoroethylene and titanium, are all non-degradable biomaterials. Hence, their presence in vivo exceeds the functional requirement of an implant to treat morbid obesity. Accordingly, research into non-invasive and reversible surgical procedures has increased, particularly in light of the dramatic increase in paediatric obesity. Tissue engineering is an alternative approach to treat morbid obesity, as it incorporates both engineering and biological principles into the design and development of an implant to surgically treat morbid obesity. It is hypothesized that a biodegradable polymer to treat morbid obesity could be developed to effectively promote excess weight loss. The aim of this review is to discuss morbid obesity with regards to its aetiology, prevalence and current modalities of treatment. Specifically, the shortcomings of the biomaterials currently used to surgically treat morbid obesity shall be reviewed, and alternative biomaterials shall be proposed. [source] Formation of microporous poly(hydroxybutyric acid) membranes for culture of osteoblast and fibroblastPOLYMERS FOR ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES, Issue 12 2009Han-Shiang Huag Abstract Microporous membranes of a biodegradable polymer, poly(hydroxybutyric acid) (PHB), were prepared by a phase-inversion process and their cell compatibility was evaluated in vitro. A ternary system, ethanol/chloroform/PHB, was employed to prepare the membranes, wherein ethanol and chloroform were served as the nonsolvent and solvent for PHB, respectively. In the phase-inversion process, the polymer dissolution temperature was varied from 80 to 120°C to yield membranes with specific morphologies, such as globular particles, porous channels, etc. Moreover, cell viability was examined on the formed membranes. Two cell lines, osteoblast hFOB1.19 and fibroblast L929, were cultured in vitro. It was found that these two types of cells exhibited different responses on different membranes: the hFOB1.19 cells showed significant increase in cell proliferation with increase in surface roughness, whereas the L929 cells demonstrated an opposite trend, preferring to attach and grow on a flat surface. PHB membranes with different morphologies exhibit different cell compatibilities, which may be useful means for the architectural design of materials for tissue engineering. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Preparation of porous biodegradable microspheres with direct melting dispersion methodPOLYMERS FOR ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES, Issue 4 2007Yoshinari Taguchi Abstract Porous biodegradable microspheres can be prepared by using the direct melting dispersion method without any noxious organic solvents, in which the biodegradable polymer is directly melted and stirred to form the liquid,liquid dispersion followed by cooling in the continuous phase, such as ethylene glycol with the higher melting temperature than polymer. In the experiment, polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) was adopted as the biodegradable polymer. As particulate porogen, magnetite powder was pre-mixed into the melted polymer and removed by hydrochloric acid aqueous solution after preparation of the microspheres to make them porous. It was found that the inner surface area was significantly increased by removing magnetite powder. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Randomized evaluation of two drug-eluting stents with identical metallic platform and biodegradable polymer but different agents (paclitaxel or sirolimus) compared against bare stents: 1-Year results of the PAINT trial,CATHETERIZATION AND CARDIOVASCULAR INTERVENTIONS, Issue 5 2009Pedro A. Lemos MD Abstract Objectives: We tested two novel drug-eluting stents (DES), covered with a biodegradable-polymer carrier and releasing paclitaxel or sirolimus, which were compared against a bare metal stent (primary objective). The DES differed by the drug, but were identical otherwise, allowing to compare the anti-restenosis effects of sirolimus versus paclitaxel (secondary objective). Background: The efficacy of novel DES with biodegradable polymers should be tested in the context of randomized trials, even when using drugs known to be effective, such as sirolimus and paclitaxel. Methods: Overall, 274 patients with de novo coronary lesions in native vessels scheduled for stent implantation were randomly assigned (2:2:1 ratio) for the paclitaxel (n = 111), sirolimus (n = 106), or bare metal stent (n = 57) groups. Angiographic follow-up was obtained at 9 months and major cardiac adverse events up to 12 months. Results: Both paclitaxel and sirolimus stents reduced the 9-month in-stent late loss (0.54,0.44 mm, 0.32,0.43 mm, vs. 0.90,0.45 mm respectively), and 1-year risk of target vessel revascularization and combined major adverse cardiac events (P < 0.05 for both, in all comparisons), compared with controls. Sirolimus stents had lower late loss than paclitaxel stents (P < 0.01), but similar 1-year clinical outcomes. There were no differences in the risk of death, infarction, or stent thrombosis among the study groups. Conclusion: Both novel DES were effective in reducing neointimal hyperplasia and 1-year re-intervention, compared to bare metal stents. Our findings also suggest that sirolimus is more effective than paclitaxel in reducing angiographic neointima, although this effect was not associated with better clinical outcomes.© 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Annealing of Biodegradable Polymer Induced by Femtosecond Laser Micromachining,ADVANCED ENGINEERING MATERIALS, Issue 4 2010Wai Yee Yeong Abstract Femtosecond laser is a potential tool for net shape processing of biodegradable polymers. However, laser processing of polymeric material is still a challenge and the effects induced by laser ablation needs to be investigated. Poly(, -caprolactone) was micromachined at high fluence and the heat affected zone was characterized. Two different phases of microstructure, namely the annealed spherulite zone and the amorphous zone, are found. [source] Porous Structures: In situ Porous Structures: A Unique Polymer Erosion Mechanism in Biodegradable Dipeptide-Based Polyphosphazene and Polyester Blends Producing Matrices for Regenerative Engineering (Adv. Funct.ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS, Issue 17 2010Mater. Abstract Synthetic biodegradable polymers serve as temporary substrates that accommodate cell infiltration and tissue in-growth in regenerative medicine. To allow tissue in-growth and nutrient transport, traditional three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds must be prefabricated with an interconnected porous structure. Here we demonstrated for the first time a unique polymer erosion process through which polymer matrices evolve from a solid coherent film to an assemblage of microspheres with an interconnected 3D porous structure. This polymer system was developed on the highly versatile platform of polyphosphazene-polyester blends. Co-substituting a polyphosphazene backbone with both hydrophilic glycylglycine dipeptide and hydrophobic 4-phenylphenoxy group generated a polymer with strong hydrogen bonding capacity. Rapid hydrolysis of the polyester component permitted the formation of 3D void space filled with self-assembled polyphosphazene spheres. Characterization of such self-assembled porous structures revealed macropores (10,100 ,m) between spheres as well as micro- and nanopores on the sphere surface. A similar degradation pattern was confirmed in vivo using a rat subcutaneous implantation model. 12 weeks of implantation resulted in an interconnected porous structure with 82,87% porosity. Cell infiltration and collagen tissue in-growth between microspheres observed by histology confirmed the formation of an in situ 3D interconnected porous structure. It was determined that the in situ porous structure resulted from unique hydrogen bonding in the blend promoting a three-stage degradation mechanism. The robust tissue in-growth of this dynamic pore forming scaffold attests to the utility of this system as a new strategy in regenerative medicine for developing solid matrices that balance degradation with tissue formation. [source] In situ Porous Structures: A Unique Polymer Erosion Mechanism in Biodegradable Dipeptide-Based Polyphosphazene and Polyester Blends Producing Matrices for Regenerative EngineeringADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS, Issue 17 2010Meng Deng Abstract Synthetic biodegradable polymers serve as temporary substrates that accommodate cell infiltration and tissue in-growth in regenerative medicine. To allow tissue in-growth and nutrient transport, traditional three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds must be prefabricated with an interconnected porous structure. Here a unique polymer erosion process through which polymer matrices evolve from a solid coherent film to an assemblage of microspheres with an interconnected 3D porous structure is demonstrated for the first time. This polymer system is developed on the highly versatile platform of polyphosphazene-polyester blends. Co-substituting a polyphosphazene backbone with both hydrophilic glycylglycine dipeptide and hydrophobic 4-phenylphenoxy group generates a polymer with strong hydrogen bonding capacity. Rapid hydrolysis of the polyester component permits the formation of 3D void space filled with self-assembled polyphosphazene spheres. Characterization of such self-assembled porous structures reveals macropores (10,100 ,m) between spheres as well as micro- and nanopores on the sphere surface. A similar degradation pattern is confirmed In vivo using a rat subcutaneous implantation model. 12 weeks of implantation results in an interconnected porous structure with 82,87% porosity. Cell infiltration and collagen tissue in-growth between microspheres observed by histology confirms the formation of an in situ 3D interconnected porous structure. It is determined that the in situ porous structure results from unique hydrogen bonding in the blend promoting a three-stage degradation mechanism. The robust tissue in-growth of this dynamic pore forming scaffold attests to the utility of this system as a new strategy in regenerative medicine for developing solid matrices that balance degradation with tissue formation. [source] Fabrication of Density Gradients of Biodegradable Polymer Microparticles and Their Use in Guiding Neurite OutgrowthADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS, Issue 10 2010Xiaoran Li Abstract A new method for generating both continuous and discrete density gradients in microparticles of biodegradable polymers via an electrospray technique is reported. The gradients are generated by spatially varying the deposition time of electrosprayed microparticles. The substrate coated with a density gradient of microparticles has varying surface roughness, offering a unique system for studying the effect of physical cues on neurite outgrowth from dorsal root ganglia. An optimal surface roughness for promoting neuron adhesion and neurite extension in vitro is obtained. Furthermore, this capability of approach is extended to generate a gradient of fluorescein isothiocyanate labeled bovine serum albumin by encapsulating it in the polymer microparticles in situ during electrospray. Taken together, this new class of substrates with gradients of microparticle density can potentially be used in various biomedical applications such as neural tissue engineering. [source] Nerve Repair: A Conducting-Polymer Platform with Biodegradable Fibers for Stimulation and Guidance of Axonal Growth (Adv. Mater.ADVANCED MATERIALS, Issue 43 200943/2009) Effective functional innervation of medical bionic devices, as well as re-innervation of target tissue in nerve and spinal cord injuries, requires a platform that can stimulate and orientate neural growth. Gordon Wallace and co-workers report on p. 4393 that conducting and nonconducting biodegradable polymers show excellent potential as suitable hybrid substrata for neural regeneration and may form the basis of electrically active conduits designed to accelerate nerve repair. [source] Biodegradable polymers: An updateISRAEL JOURNAL OF CHEMISTRY, Issue 4 2005Ariella Shikanov The use of polymeric materials for the administration of pharmaceuticals, and as biomedical devices has increased dramatically. This review focuses on synthetic biodegradable polymers of current interest for medical use, based on ester and anhydride bonds. Special attention is given to factors affecting biodegradation, including: polymer structure, morphology, molecular weight, radiation, and chemical treatment, as well as the effects of drugs and plasticizers added to the polymer mass. The toxicity and biocompatibility of the polymers and their current and future applications in medicine are also briefly reviewed. [source] Polylactide copolymers: Effect of copolymer ratio and end capping on their propertiesADVANCES IN POLYMER TECHNOLOGY, Issue 2 2005D. M. Bigg Abstract Racemic copolymers of polylactic acid were investigated to determine the effect of copolymer ratio on melting point, degree of crystallinity, mechanical properties, and processing behavior. The copolymer ratio was found to have a strong influence on the crystallization behavior of the polymer. In addition to the ratio of the L -form to a random mixture of the D and L forms of the lactic acid in the copolymer, the effect of the polymer's molecular weight was examined. The copolymers were produced from the lactide form of the monomer to achieve weight average molecular weights above 100,000. The molecular weight had a profound influence on processability and rate of crystallization. Other notable factors influencing the properties and processing of the copolymers were the concentration of residual monomer in the polymer, the processing time-temperature history, and the extent of molecular weight degradation during processing. An important factor in the commercial development of biodegradable polymers is the ability to control the rate of degradation. Ideally, the polymer should not degrade during functional use, but degrade quite rapidly when discarded. This paper discusses various aspects associated with the control of the rate of degradation of polylactide copolymers; both from the perspective of stabilizing the polymer during processing and product use, and subsequently accelerating the rate of degradation after disposal. Of particular interest are the influences of molecular weight, crystallinity, end capping, and plasticization. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Adv Polym Techn 24:69,82, 2005; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/adv.20032 [source] In vitro release of complexed pDNA from biodegradable polymer filmsJOURNAL OF APPLIED POLYMER SCIENCE, Issue 1 2008Y. Ramgopal Abstract The controlled delivery of low-molecular weight drugs and proteins from biodegradable polymers has received considerable attention. However, controlled release studies of pDNA from such polymers have not been reported to date. In this study, a plasmid DNA was complexed with the cationic polymer called polyethylenimine (PEI). This gene vector has been shown to be very effective in transfecting cells. The complexed DNA were then incorporated into different types of poly-lactic- co -glycolic acid (PLGA) film; PLGA 53/47 (Mw 90 kDa), 50/50 (Mw 11 kDa, end group is lauryl ester) and 75/25 (Mw 120 kDa). Their release profiles from a buffer solution were studied. An initial (small) burst release of PEI-DNA from film was observed in PLGA 53/47 and 50/50, followed by a plateau phase and finally a rapid erosion-controlled release. For PLGA 50/50, the rapid release started after 14 days; erosion-controlled release for PLGA 53/47 started after 9 days; for PLGA 75/25, the release rate was governed by an initial burst release (10%) followed by a slow release controlled by diffusion. No obvious erosion-controlled release rate was observed for this polymer up to 27 days. Thus, the controlled release of complexed DNA follows the general features exhibited by lower- Mw drugs. This is of significance in designing gene vector matrices that offer the promise of more lasting gene therapy compared with particulate formulations. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008 [source] Carbon dioxide extraction of residual chloroform from biodegradable polymersJOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL MATERIALS RESEARCH, Issue 5 2002Wendy S. Koegler Abstract Biodegradable polymeric devices for drug delivery and tissue engineering are often fabricated with the use of organic solvents and may still contain significant amounts of solvent (> 1 wt%) even after aggressive vacuum drying. This excess solvent can interfere with tissue response and the mechanical properties of the devices. The aim of this article is to demonstrate that liquid CO2 extraction can be used to reduce residual solvent in dense poly(L -lactide-co-glycolide) devices to 50 ppm relatively quickly and with minimal changes in architecture under some conditions. Two liquid CO2 extraction systems were developed to examine the removal of residual solvents from bar-shaped PLGA devices: (1) a low-pressure (1400 psi) batch system, and (2) a high-pressure (5000 psi) continuous-flow system. Eight hours of extraction in the high-pressure system reduced residual chloroform in 3 mm thick bars below the 50-ppm target. A simple Fickian diffusion model was fit to the extraction results. Diffusion coefficients ranged from 1.10×10,6 cm2/s to 2.64×10,6 cm2/s. The model predicts that ,1 h is needed to dry 1-mm bars to chloroform levels below 50 ppm, and 7 h are needed for 3 mm thick bars. The micro- and macroarchitectures of porous PLGA scaffolds created by particulate leaching were not significantly altered by CO2 drying if the salt used to make the pores was not removed before drying. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res (Appl Biomater) 63: 567,576, 2002 [source] Experimental problems in the application of UV/visible based methods as the quantification tool for the entrapped/released insulin from PLGA carriersJOURNAL OF CHEMICAL TECHNOLOGY & BIOTECHNOLOGY, Issue 9 2009V.L. Lassalle Abstract BACKGROUND: Controlled release of medicaments from biodegradable polymers remains the most convenient way for their sustained release. Although a number of articles have been published, experimental work involving the preparation of polymer-based carriers and release procedures are not described with sufficient level of detail to allow other researchers to reproduce the experiments and to compare published results with their own. In this contribution the experimental background of the entrapment and release of insulin from PLGA carriers is described and the problems found at each step related to UV/Visible method used to quantify them are addressed in detail. RESULTS: The quantification of entrapped insulin by UV/visible methods was affected by aggregation. The design of the release experiment influenced the results regarding the entrapment efficiency (EE) and the maximum percentage of released insulin. It was also found that the presence of colloidal polymeric particles, insufficient centrifugation times and the kind of solvent used in the release test might lead to mistakes in the percentage of liberated insulin when UV/visible based methods are employed. CONCLUSIONS: This contribution demonstrates that serious discrepancies in the EE and percentage of released protein may arise if some key experimental factors are not taken into account. Therefore, the analysis presented here tries to point out important aspects of this topic currently not reported, unnoticed or not properly analyzed in the open literature. The results are useful for the entrapment of any protein on any polymeric device using UV/visible based methods to quantify them. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry [source] Storage of biodegradable polymers by an enriched microbial community in a sequencing batch reactor operated at high organic load rateJOURNAL OF CHEMICAL TECHNOLOGY & BIOTECHNOLOGY, Issue 11 2005Davide Dionisi Abstract The production of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) from organic acids by mixed bacterial cultures using a process based on aerobic enrichment of activated sludge, that selects for mixed microbial cultures able to store PHAs at high rates and yields, is described. Enrichment resulted from the selective pressure established by periodic feeding the carbon source in a sequencing batch reactor (SBR); a mixture of acetic, lactic and propionic acids was fed at high frequency (2 hourly), high dilution rate (1 d,1), and at high organic load rate (12.75 g chemical oxygen demand (COD) L,1 d,1). The performance of the SBR was assessed by microbial biomass and PHA production as well as the composition and polymer content of the biomass. A final batch stage was used to increase the polymer concentration of the excess sludge produced in the SBR and in which the behaviour of the biomass was investigated by determining PHA production rates and yields. The microbial biomass selected in the SBR produced PHAs at high rate [278 mg PHAs (as COD) g biomass (as COD),1 h,1, with a yield of 0.39 mg PHAs (as COD) mg removed substrates (as COD),1], reaching a polymer content higher than 50% (on a COD basis). The stored polymer was the copolymer poly(3-hydroxybutyrate/3-hydroxyvalerate) [P(HB/HV)], with an HV fraction of 18% mol mol,1. The microbial community selected in the SBR was analysed by DGGE (denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis). The operating conditions of the SBR were shown to select for a restricted microbial population which appeared quite different in terms of composition with respect to the initial microbial cenosis in the activated sludge used as inoculum. On the basis of the sequencing of the major bands in the DGGE profiles, four main genera were identified: a Methylobacteriaceae bacterium, Flavobacterium sp, Candidatus Meganema perideroedes, and Thauera sp. The effects of nitrogen depletion (ie absence of growth) and pH variation were also investigated in the batch stage and compared with the SBR operative mode. Absence of growth did not stimulate higher PHA production, so indicating that the periodic feed regime fully exploited the storage potential of the enriched culture. Polymer production rates remained high between pH 6.5 and 9.5, whereas the HV content in the stored polymer strongly increased as the pH value increased. This study shows that polymer composition in the final batch stage can readily be controlled independently from the feed composition in the SBR. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry [source] Chitosan,alginate,CaCl2 system for membrane coat applicationJOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES, Issue 8 2001Lishan Wang Abstract Water-based formulations are preferred for membrane coat application because they do not require the use of noxious solvents. A novel aqueous chitosan,alginate,CaCl2 system was evaluated as a potential formulation to produce water-insoluble membranes of biodegradable polymers. Chitosan,alginate coacervates were prepared by controlled reaction of chitosan (0.25% w/v) and sodium alginate (0.25% w/v) solutions. Coherent membranes were obtained by casting and drying the coacervates suspended in aqueous CaCl2 solutions (0.05,0.07% w/v). Increasing the calcium content did not modify membrane thickness (25,26 ,m), but reduced the water vapor transmission rate from 658 to 566 g/m2/day, and improved the tensile strength of the membranes from 9.33 to 17.13 MPa. Differential scanning calorimetry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and elemental analyses of the chitosan,alginate coacervates indicated they were stable for up to 4 weeks of storage in distilled water at ambient temperature. Membranes of the stored coacervates required less calcium to attain maximum mechanical strength. They also had higher water vapor transmission rates than corresponding films prepared from fresh coacervates. On the basis of the properties of the cast film and its storage stability, the chitosan,alginate,CaCl2 system can be considered for potential membrane coat application. © 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc. and the American Pharmaceutical Association J Pharm Sci 90:1134,1142, 2001 [source] Sustained Release of 5-Fluorouracil from Polymeric NanoparticlesJOURNAL OF PHARMACY AND PHARMACOLOGY: AN INTERNATI ONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCE, Issue 12 2000PAUL A. McCARRON The use of biodegradable nanoparticles loaded with 5-fluorouracil was investigated as a potential means to sustain the release of this drug. Nanoparticles prepared from four biodegradable polymers were loaded with 5-fluorouracil using three loading concentrations of drug and three different concentrations of added polymer. Washing particles using a centrifugation/re-suspension with ultrasound protocol was found to dislodge the majority of drug, resulting in an over-estimation of incorporation efficiency and low levels of strongly entrapped drug. Increasing the initial 5-fluorouracil concentration before polymer/monomer addition increased the drug loading in both washed and unwashed particles. Increasing the amount of polymer used to make nanoparticles did not increase loadings, but did produce increased amounts of unusable polymer waste. Drug release from nanoparticles was evaluated using a Franz cell diffusion apparatus, which showed an initial burst effect followed by a slower release phase over 24 h. Indeed, nanoparticles prepared from poly(lactide-co-glycolide) released 66% of their 5-fluorouracil payload over this period. It was concluded that 5-fluorouracil-loaded nanoparticles could be readily included into a hydrogel-based delivery system to provide sustained drug release for trans-epithelial drug-delivery applications. [source] Synthesis and characterization of amphiphilic block copolymer of polyphosphoester and poly(L -lactic acid)JOURNAL OF POLYMER SCIENCE (IN TWO SECTIONS), Issue 19 2008Xian-Zhu Yang Abstract Aliphatic polyesters and polyphosphoesters (PPEs) have received much interest in medical applications due to their favorable biocompatibility and biodegradability. In this work, novel amphiphilic triblock copolymers of PPE and poly(L -lactic acid) (PLLA) with various compositions were synthesized and characterized. The blocky structure was confirmed by GPC analyses. These triblock copolymers formed micelles composed of hydrophobic PLLA core and hydrophilic PPE shell in aqueous solution. Critical micellization concentrations of these triblock copolymers were related to the polymer compositions. Incubation of micelles at neutral pH followed by GPC analyses revealed that these polymer micelles were hydrolysized and resulted in decreased molecular weights and small oligomers, whereas its degradation in basic and acid mediums was accelerated. MTT assay also demonstrated the biocompatibility against HEK293 cells. These biodegradable polymers are potential as drug carriers for biomedical application. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 46: 6425,6434, 2008 [source] Laser Raman spectroscopic investigations of biodegradable vehicle of active agents eluting LVM 316 stainless steel cardiovascular stents for in vivo degradation characteristicsJOURNAL OF RAMAN SPECTROSCOPY, Issue 4 2010S. K. Sudheer Abstract Laser Raman spectroscopy is an effective tool for the study of biodegradable polymers, which play a vital role in the new developments in coronary implants such as stents. There is much excitement around the potential capabilities of synthetic biodegradable polymers and the effect they will have on the design and function of implanted devices. In the present investigation, heparin-conjugated biodegradable copolymers were evaluated for their durability as drug-eluting stent coatings. Laser Raman spectroscopic studies were carried out and spectra recorded and analyzed of explanted stents coated with different amounts of polymer alone, showing the existence of different levels at different quantities of polymer. The polymer was detected on every stent analyzed. On the stents coated with a thick layer of polymer, a firm layer of polymer still existed on the stent. In contrast, this layer was degraded and spread around on the stents coated with only a thin layer of the polymer. This indicates that the polymers used in the stents in the present investigation exhibit acceptable biodegradability. Such polymers can be used as efficient drug carriers, as these materials show good degradation after the stipulated period. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Biodegradable Polymeric Microcarriers with Controllable Porous Structure for Tissue EngineeringMACROMOLECULAR BIOSCIENCE, Issue 12 2009Xudong Shi Abstract Porous microspheres fabricated by biodegradable polymers show great potential as microcarriers for cell cultivation in tissue engineering. Herein biodegradable poly(DL -lactide) (PLA) was used to fabricate porous microspheres through a modified double emulsion solvent evaporation method. The influence of fabrication parameters, such as the stirring speed of the primary and secondary emulsion, the polymer concentration of the oil phase, and solvent type, as well as the post-hydrolysis treatment of the porous structure of the PLA microspheres are discussed. Good attachment and an active spread of MG-63 cells on the microspheres is observed, which indicates that the PLA microspheres with controllable porous structure are of great potential as cell delivery carriers for tissue engineering. [source] Lactic Acid-Based Functionalized Polymers via Copolymerization and Chemical ModificationMACROMOLECULAR BIOSCIENCE, Issue 3 2004Benjamin Saulnier Abstract Summary: Poly(lactic acid) polymers (PLA) are presently the most attractive compounds in the field of artificial degradable and biodegradable polymers. In order to enlarge the family, and thus the range of accessible properties, stereocopolymers and copolymers with various co-monomers have been synthesized. However, very few are functionalized, i.e. include functional groups attached to the main chains or as part of the side chains. In the search for degradable PLA-type polymers bearing functional groups to serve as intermediates for further chemical modifications, we are exploring two different routes. The first one is copolymerization with a protected hydroxyl-bearing lactide-type monomer, namely 3-(1,2,3,4-tetraoxobutyldiisopropylidene)dioxane-2,5-dione. The second route consists of the formation of a carbanionic site in the , -position to intrachain carbonyl functions by using lithium N,N -diisopropylamide followed by the coupling of electrophiles. Recent advances in this search are presented using several examples. In particular, it is shown that OH-functionalized PLA-type macromolecules can be made fluorescent by chemical coupling. It is also shown that substituents can be attached to PLA-type macromolecules in solution or to the surface of PLA-based devices selectively. Example of chemical modifications of hydroxyl-bearing PLA-type polymers derived from gluconic and glycolic acids (via gluconolactone) and lactic acid (via lactide). [source] Control of Biodegradability of Polylactide via Nanocomposite TechnologyMACROMOLECULAR MATERIALS & ENGINEERING, Issue 3 2003Suprakas Sinha Ray Abstract Polymer/layered silicate nanocomposite technology is not only suitable for the significant improvement of mechanical and various other materials properties of virgin polymers, it is also suitable to enhance the rate of biodegradation of biodegradable polymers such as polylactide. The biodegradability of polylactide in nanocomposites completely depends upon both the nature of pristine layered silicates and surfactants used for the modification of layered silicate, and we can control the biodegradability of polylactide via judicious choice of organically modified layered silicate. Biodegradation of neat PLA and various PLA/OMLS nanocomposites recovered from compost with time. [source] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||