Padua G.W., Wang Q., Wang Y., Wang Q., Wang Y.
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, US
Keywords: controlled release, fibers, microstructure, porous, zein
Zein, a protein abundant in corn, is capable of self-assembly and may form a variety of structural morphologies (Wang et al 2004, Wang et al 2008a). Zein micro-fibers (Figure 1.), films, and sponges (Figure 2) were prepared from colloidal suspension. They had good tensile strength and elastic properties and biocompatible surfaces (Wang et al., 2008b). Interestingly, zein surfaces were able to induce cell adhesion at specific locations thus allowing for spatial control of cell growth. Tu et al. (2009) reported that complexes of zein scaffolds and rabbit MSCs could undergo ectopic bone formation in the thigh muscle pouches of nude mice. Zein may also form hollow microspheres (Figures 3 and 4) which could be useful as encapsulation materials for controlled release of growth factors or drugs. Zein constructs of enhanced capabilities may lead to effective tissue engineering leading to cartilage replacement and the treatment of bone injuries.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 3, Nanotechnology 2010: Bio Sensors, Instruments, Medical, Environment and Energy
Published: June 21, 2010
Pages: 202 - 205
Industry sector: Medical & Biotech
Topic: Biomaterials
ISBN: 978-1-4398-3415-2