Redox-responsive degradable PEG cryogels as potential cell scaffolds in tissue engineering

A Michael addition strategy involving the reaction between a maleimide double bond and amine groups is investigated for the synthesis of cryogels at subzero temperature. Low-molecular-weight PEG-based building blocks with amine end groups and disulfide-containing building blocks with maleimide end groups are combined to synthesize redox-responsive PEG cryogels. The cryogels exhibit an interconnected macroporous morphology, a high compressive modulus and gelation yields of around 95%. While the cryogels are stable under physiological conditions, complete dissolution of the cryogels into water-soluble products is obtained in the presence of a reducing agent (glutathione) in the medium. Cell seeding experiments and toxicologic analysis demonstrate their potential as scaffolds in tissue engineering.