Biodegradable polymer scaffolds for stem-cell based treatment of age-related macular degeneration

This presentation will describe the formulation and biocompatibility testing of biodegradable polymer substrates for the treatment of age-related macular degeneration. As potential candidates two systems have been exploited: blends of poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA)/poly-ε-caprolactone (PCL) of various compns. and a random terpolymer of poly-lactide-co-glicolide-co-caprolactone (PLGC). The choice of potential substrates was governed by several criteria, excellent biocompatibility, controlled biodegradability and the presence of functionality, suitable for further modification. Scaffolds were formulated by prepg. thin films of PLGA/PCL or PLGC followed by surface modification with a cyclic RGD peptide. To det. if the substrates can be applied as scaffolds for tissue engineering, their biocompatibility was examd. using in vitro expts