An Injectable, Biodegradable PEG Copolyester As A Carrier For Endothelial Cells

INTRODUCTION We have developed a block copolymer of poly(propy1ene fumarate-co-ethylene glycol), P(PFCO-EG)’, in order to adprobIems with currcntIy used cardiovascular stenting materials. P(PF-co-EG) is crosslinkable through the fumarate double bonds forming a mechanicaUy stable hydrogel which degrades into fumaric acid, propylene glycol, and PEG. Because of these properties, P(F‘F-co-EG) has potential for use as an injectable, biodegradable implant. We propose to embed endotheIial cells during the crosslinking process and have assessed the feasibility of using this material as a carrier for endothelial cells. The cytotoxicity of preformed copolymer disks was examined as well as cell viabiLity upon embedding.