Co-cross-linked Hydrogel Matrix for Injectable Volume Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cross-linked biopolymer-based hydrogels face challenges in maintaining remanence and volume creation in biological tissues due to rapid degradation and particle migration, which affects their therapeutic and cosmetic applications.
Innovation Solution
A co-cross-linked single-phase-type hydrogel matrix is developed, where previously cross-linked biopolymer particles are integrated within a cross-linked network, enhancing resistance to degradation and elasticity, allowing for sustained volume creation and improved mechanical properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If cross-linked biopolymer particles are dispersed in a fluid phase (two-phase gel), then the gel is injectable and has quick degradation of fluid phase, but the cross-linked particles migrate and the gel lacks sufficient remanence
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the dispersed particles and the continuous matrix into a single-phase co-cross-linked network. The particles are no longer separate entities but are covalently bonded to the matrix, eliminating particle migration while maintaining injectability. This is achieved by introducing a cross-linking agent that forms covalent bonds between biopolymer chains in the particles and the matrix simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite structure where previously cross-linked biopolymer particles are integrated into a cross-linked matrix through co-cross-linking. The resulting single-phase hydrogel combines the structural integrity of cross-linked particles with the continuity of the matrix, preventing migration while enhancing remanence and volume creation capability.
2Reliability
If cross-linked biopolymer gel is used, then the gel has strong remanence, but the degradation occurs slowly taking into account the cross-linked nature
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the chemical structure and cross-linking density parameters of the hydrogel to achieve optimized degradation kinetics. By controlling the cross-linking agent concentration and type, the gel maintains strong remanence through extensive cross-linking while incorporating hydrolytically labile bonds that enable controlled degradation at clinically acceptable rates.
3Stability of the object's composition
If single-phase cross-linked gel is used, then the gel has slow surface degradation, but the gel lacks the volume creation capability of two-phase gels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a composite single-phase hydrogel where biopolymer particles are co-cross-linked into the matrix. This composite structure provides both the stability of extensive cross-linking (slow degradation) and the volume creation capability through the three-dimensional network architecture and high water content typical of hydrogels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces local heterogeneity in the single-phase gel by incorporating regions of different cross-linking densities and biopolymer concentrations. The co-cross-linked particles create local zones of enhanced structural integrity while the overall matrix maintains porosity and water content for volume creation, achieving both slow degradation and volume expansion.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The hydrogel exhibits enhanced remanence and volume creation capabilities, with reduced particle migration and prolonged degradation, ensuring effective and sustained performance in therapeutic and cosmetic applications.
Implementation Method 1
a co-cross-linked single-phase-type matrix in which previously cross-linked biopolymer particles have been co-cross-linked
Data Source
AI summary
An injectable hydrogel includes a hydrogel matrix based on (a) single-phase-type cross-linked biopolymer(s), characterized in that previously cross-linked biopolymer hydrogel particles are co-cross-linked with the matrix. A method of and a process for production of the above-mentioned hydrogel are also disclosed.