Mechanomimetic Hydrogels for Vocal Fold Lamina Propria Regeneration
Vocal fold injury commonly leads to reduced vocal quality due to scarring-induced alterations in matrix composition and tissue biomechanics. The long-term hypothesis motivating our work is that rapid restoration of phonation and the associated dynamic mechanical environment will reduce
scarring and promote regenerative healing. Toward this end, the objective of this study was to develop mechanomimetic, degradable hydrogels approximating the viscoelastic properties of the vocal ligament and mucosa that may be photopolymerized in situ to restore structural integrity
to vocal fold tissues. The tensile and rheological properties of hydrogels (targeting the vocal ligament and mucosa, respectively) were varied as a function of macromer concentration. PEG diacrylate-based hydrogels exhibited linear stress–strain response and elastic modulus consistent
with the properties of the vocal ligament at low strains (0–15%), but did not replicate the non-linear behavior observed in native tissue at higher strains. Methacrylated hyaluronic acid hydrogels displayed dynamic viscosity consistent with native vocal mucosa, while elastic shear moduli
values were several-fold higher. Cell culture studies indicated that both hydrogels supported spreading, proliferation and collagen/proteoglycan matrix deposition by encapsulated fibroblasts throughout the 3D network.
Keywords: EXTRACELLULAR MATRIX; HYALURONIC ACID; HYDROGEL; POLY(ETHYLENE GLYCOL); VOCAL FOLD
Document Type: Research Article
Affiliations: Department of Bioengineering, MicroEnvironmental Engineering Laboratory, Clemson University, 501 Rhodes Research Center, Clemson, SC 29634, USA
Publication date: 01 March 2009
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