The aim of my research is two-fold; 1) to synthesise new poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)-based hydrogel materials and 2) to use these materials in the preparation of three-dimensional (3-D) scaffolds for the study of directed cell-biomaterial interactions. To synthesis new PEG-based hydrogels we use various linear and branched building blocks and cross-link them in different combinations. Cross-linking the different building blocks in unique configurations gives us access to diverse materials with differing properties such as stiffness and pore size.

Once the properties of the PEG hydrogels are optimised, we use the gels in the fabrication of 3-D structures. The two main methods we utilise are 1) uni-axial freezing and 2) the use of a temporary porogen, both of which result in 3-D hydrogel scaffolds with topographic architecture. We study the interaction of cells with the confined channels of this intrinsically “cell repellent” material.

Dr. Susan Kelleher

Description of work