Biomaterials for protection and repair of the central nervous system

Abstract

An injectable hydrogel for controlled release of methylprednisolone was designed based on the inflammatory response during acute spinal cord injury. The gel is injectable through a small gauge needle, cross-links under physiological conditions, and releases methylprednisolone over a time period on the order of weeks. Swelling properties were characterized to address potential safety concerns for potential clinical use. Two studies are presented towards the development of a model Brown-Sequard syndrome and accompanying behavioral and pathological outcome measures for evaluation of biomaterials in vivo. A modified poly(glycerol-co-sebacic acid) membrane was developed using electrospun poly(s-caprolactone) nanofibers. Retinal adhesion and histology was evaluated in vitro. Membranes were evaluated in vivo for their ability to selectively remove photoreceptors in situ and promote survival and integration of retinal transplants. Viscoelastic poly(ethylene glycol) sols were evaluated as potential vitreous substitutes. Finally, a business plan outlines the strategy towards clinical trials for a hydrogel vitreous substitute.