Synthesis and Characterization of PolyHIPE-Gellan Gum Material with Tunable Macroporosity for Tissue Engineering Applications

Abstract

Polymerized high internal phase emulsions (poly-HIPEs) were combined with gellan gum (GG) in an innovative approach. Four GG concentrations in polyHIPEs (P-GG 0%, P-GG 0.1%, P-GG 0.5%, and P-GG 1%) were explored for their impact on polyHIPE materials. The resulting macroporous polyHIPE-GG (P-GG) scaffolds exhibited up to 95% porosity and remarkable interconnectivity. Elevating GG concentration correlated with larger pore sizes, increased hydrophilicity, and degradability. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray microcomputed tomography provided insights into the structural influence of GG on polyHIPE materials. Pore sizes ranged from 32 to 1036 μm. In vitro Live/Dead assay confirmed the cytocompatibility of these scaffolds with human fibroblast cells, showcasing their potential for mimicking cartilage and bone tissue structures, promoting cell activities, nutrient exchange, supporting various cell lines, and facilitating vascularization.