Injectable and Cell-Adhesive Polyethylene Glycol Cryogel Scaffolds: Independent Control of Cryogel Microstructure and Composition

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) cryogels are promising alternatives to hydrogels due to their macroporosity. PEG is bioinert and modifications with adhesive ligands enable independent control of cryogel physical, mechanical, and biochemical properties. Pre-functionalization of PEG cryogels with ligands is crucial, as cryogel formation consumes all functional groups. Here, injectable ligand pre-functionalized PEG cryogels are fabricated and characterized. Cryogel pore size (54-163 mu m), porosity (40-80%), and Young's modulus (1-40kPa) are modulated through controlling the rate of freezing, ice crystal formation, and polymer concentration. Ligand pre-functionalization does not affect cryogel properties. NIH 3T3 cell viability and infiltration are governed by ligand concentration and cryogel porosity.