Versatile Biocompatible Polymer Hydrogels: Scaffolds for Cell Growth

Abstract

Gelling together: A three-dimensional, biocompatible hydrogel (see picture) was generated by combining two cationic polymers, chitosan and poly(ethylenimine). The hydrogels were stable under cell-culture conditions and facilitated cell proliferation, yet prevented dedifferentiation of primary human skeletal cells into fibroblasts. A variety of materials such as DNA, proteins, and peptides can be stably incorporated into the gel network.