(450f) The Evaluation of Hyaluronic Acid Hydrogels as Scaffolds for Neural Differentiation of PC12 Cells

Hydrogels are crosslinked three-dimensional networks, having extensive applications in controlled therapeutic release/delivery, and tissue engineering as cell host scaffolds. In particular, hyaluronic acid (HA), which is an important component in the extracellular matrix, has been used to construct scaffolds through free radical polymerization or condensation polymerization for cell differentiation and/or proliferation. We have recently developed degradable hyaluronic acid-based hydrogels. The degradation property and mechanics of the hydrogels are characterized. The effects of the chemical composition and biomechanical properties of the hydrogels on the growth of neuron-like PC 12 cells are studies. This project has significance in developing novel biomimetic materials for neural engineering.