Double-network polysaccharide hydrogel for guided tissue repair†

The increasing need for biocompatible and sustainable materials has highlighted the potential of natural-based polymers in tissue engineering, particularly due to their bioactivity, degradability, and ability to mimic the extracellular matrix. Polysaccharide-based membranes are especially promising for guided tissue regeneration (GTR) applications, thanks to their biocompatibility, resorbability, and capacity to recreate biological environments. However, their limited mechanical properties present challenges for practical handling during implantation. In this study, double-network polysaccharide hydrogels were developed to enhance the mechanical robustness of polysaccharide membranes for tissue engineering purposes. By optimizing synthesis parameters, a biphasic membrane was achieved, comprising a non-porous side to serve as a physical barrier and a porous side to facilitate cellular infiltration during GTR. Sterilization via gamma irradiation did not compromise the structural integrity or implantability of the membranes. Furthermore, in vivo studies using a mouse subcutaneous model demonstrated a barrier effect, confirming the suitability of these membranes for guided tissue repair. These findings demonstrate the potential of engineered polysaccharide membranes as versatile and effective materials in regenerative medicine.