Polymeric matrixes for release of growth factors, hormones and other bioactive agents

GALLARDO,A.; ABRAHAM,G.A.; ELVIRA,C.; VAZQUEZ,B.; SAN ROMAN,J

Polymer Based Systems on Tissue Engineering, Replacement and Regeneration. NATO-ASI Science series

Kluwer Academic Publishers

Lugar: No Informado; Año: 2002; p. 37 - 52

The treatment, repair and regeneration of damaged tissues, which is the aim of modern tissue engineering, can be tailored to provide the optimum environment incorporating controlled release of the appropriate active compounds. In this sense, a big challenge is to optimize the delivery of immunosuppressors, hormones, growth factors, vitamins and other active agents. Great efforts are nowadays directed towards the preparation of matrices for the controlled delivery of this kind of compounds. Two basic types of delivery systems have to be taken into account: polymer-active covalent conjugates, and matrices that physically incorporate the drug. In both cases and for these particular applications, biodegradability (and/or resorbabilility), and biocompatibility are indispensable requirements since most of the times the biomaterial will be implanted or parenterally administered. Examples of polymeric supports for chemically-linked bioactive compounds and physically-loaded systems are presented. A critical discussion of their advantages and practical problems is also included in this chapter. Keywords: drug delivery systems; tissue engineering; polymer matrices; polymeric scaffolds; polymeric drugs.