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Publication Date

2023-5

First Advisor

Maren E. Buck

Second Advisor

Alexis M. Ziemba

Document Type

Honors Project

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Department

Neuroscience

Keywords

hydrogels, nerve guidance conduits, peripheral nerve injuries, polymers, azlactones, nerve regeneration, biomaterials, cell scaffolds

Abstract

The current treatments for peripheral nerve injuries are inadequate in restoring neuronal functionality and can result in negative side effects including donor-site morbidity and tissue rejection. An alternative treatment method that is currently being explored is the usage of nerve guidance conduits (NGCs) that can bridge the gap between the severed nerve endings. In this thesis work, the utility of hydrogels consisting of poly(2-vinyl-4,4’-dimethyl azlactone) (PVDMA) crosslinked with Jeffamine 600 to act as NGCs was explored. Subsequently, self-rolling tubes that resemble 3D tubular NGCs were formed by fabricating hydrogel bilayers with distinct crosslinking densities. These self-rolling tubes provide a scaffold ideal for nerve regeneration without requiring harsh external chemical or mechanical cues such as sacrificial layers. Additionally, the hydrogel systems were topographically patterned by imprinting ridges into the hydrogels, creating a mechanical guidance cue that could direct cells to migrate in a specific direction. Due to the reactive residual azlactone groups present in these hydrogels, they could be selectively conjugated with bioactive compounds such as proteins and polypeptides. The PVDMA-Jeffamine 600 hydrogels supported cell adhesion and growth under certain conditions.

Rights

©2023 Arshiyan Alam Laaj. Access limited to the Smith College community and other researchers while on campus. Smith College community members also may access from off-campus using a Smith College log-in. Other off-campus researchers may request a copy through Interlibrary Loan for personal use.

Language

English

Comments

100 pages: color illustrations, charts. Includes bibliographical references (pages 96-100).

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