Hydrogels

Question 1

When were hydrogels first introduced?

Answer 1

1960

Question 2

What are the two types of hydrogel formation?

Answer 2

Physical (Van der Waals)

Chemical (Covalent Bonds)

Question 3

In physical gelation, chains are bonded through;

Answer 3

• Hydrogen bonding

- Molecular entanglements

Question 4

In chemical formation, chains are bonded through;

Answer 4

• Radiation (UV)

- Addition of chemical cross-linkers

Question 5

What is swelling - Water diffusion?

Answer 5

The ability to display a measurable change in volume in response to external stimuli

Question 6

What are the three main mechanisms of degradation?

Answer 6

• Hydrolysis
• Enzymatic cleavage
• Dissolution

Question 7

What are the two classes of hydrogel?

Answer 7

Natural and synthetic

Question 8

What is the most important natural hydrogel?

Answer 8

Collagen

Question 9

What are the four steps of cartilage tissue engineering for articular joint repair in clinical uses

Answer 9

1. Isolate MSCs
2. Grow and differentiate MSCs
3. Seed onto optimised scaffold matrix
4. Implant into patient