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Microgel particles could replace workings of intervertebral disc

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Management of intervertebral disc degeneration may be achieved through the use of a novel microgel, according to a study published in Soft Matter.

Researchers with the University of Manchester report they have developed an injectable microgel — swellable nanoscopic polymer particles — capable of use in soft and load-bearing tissue repair.

“Our team has made a breakthrough through innovative materials design that brings the prospect of an injectable gel for treating degeneration of the intervertebral disc a step closer,” lead researcher Brian R. Saunders stated in a University of Manchester release.

According to the release, the researchers had previously demonstrated an injectable fluid of the particles could transform into a gel capable of restoring the mechanical properties of damaged model intervertebral discs. By linking the microgel particles together, the team has formed injectable durable, elastic gels “capable of sustaining large permanent changes in shape without breaking,” the release noted.

These improved injectable gels have mechanical properties superior to those of the first generation and are thus durable enough in the long term to be used as an implant device.

The microgels, which the study abstract reports “were prepared using covalent linking of physically gelled dispersions of inter-penetrating, vinyl-functionalized microgels,” displayed variable yield strains of 5% to 65%. The researchers were able, in the study, to display tuning ability with regard to the microgels’ mechanical properties.

“We show that control of intra- and inter-particle crosslinking can be achieved using preparation conditions,” the authors wrote. “The new DX microgels have potential application has injectable gels for soft and load-bearing tissue repair.”

Reference:

• Ruixue L, Milani AH, Freemont TJ, Saunders BR. Doubly crosslinked pH-responsive microgels prepared by particle inter-penetration: swelling and mechanical properties. Soft Matter. 2011;7:4696-4704. doi: 10.1039/C1SM05216K.
• www.manchester.ac.uk
• Disclosure: This work has been funded by the EPSRC and was recently awarded Proof-of-Principle funding by The University of Manchester Intellectual Property Limited.

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