Anionic polymers for implantation

Abstract

The biocompatibility of hydrogels containing carboxylate anions was studied by a panel of tests in vitro and in vivo. In comparison with other types of similar hydrogels, those with COO- anions induced a lower extent of foreign body reaction, and their systemic effect on the immune system also seems lower. The biomimetic effect of carboxylate anions on biocompatibility of synthetic materials could be explained by a similar biomimetic effect of N-acetylneuraminic acid inhibiting the non-self recognition of bacterial cells by non-specific immunity. The encouraging long-term results of clinical trials of intraocular lenses prepared from copolymer of 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate and sodium methacrylate support this hypothesis.