Poly(ethylene oxide) hydrogels as semi-permeable membranes for an artificial pancreas

Poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) hydrogels were synthesized in organic solvents, or for better results in water, via the free-radical homopolymerization of α,ω-methacryl-oyloxy PEO macromonomers. Their characteristics (amount of extractable material, equilibrium swelling degree, uniaxial compression modulus) could be controlled by the polymerization parameters (precursor molar mass, macromonomer concentration, polymerization time). In aqueous media, the hydrophobic end-standing polymerizable methacrylic units of the macromonomers self-organize, and their polymerization leads to networks with better mechanical properties than those prepared with the same macromonomers but in organic solvents. In vitro tests confirmed their good biocompatibility: almost no adhesion of cells was evident. It was confirmed that glucose diffuses through these hydrogels. Insulin diffusion was also studied but found to be more complex.

Schematic representation of a device for an artifical pancreas based on a vascular system.