Photocrosslinkable polyesters and poly(ester anhydride)s for biomedical applications

Crosslinking is a feasible way to prepare biodegradable polymers with potential in biomedical applications such as controlled release of active agents and tissue engineering. A synthesis route in which functional telechelic aliphatic polyester oligomers are used as precursors for the preparation of crosslinked polyesters and poly(ester anhydride)s is described. Mechanical properties, degradation characteristics and rate, and bioactivity can be modified widely by controlling the chemical composition and architecture of the crosslinkable oligomers. In tissue engineering, photocrosslinking allows to use crosslinkable oligomers in advanced manufacturing techniques like micromolding in capillaries, stereolithography and two-photon polymerization.