"Chitosan-based Method Bonds Hydrogels and Polymeric Materials"

Scientists at the Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University and Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences have developed a simple and versatile method to bond hydrogels and other polymeric materials using a thin film of chitosan, derived from shellfish. This new approach allows for rapid and strong bonding of hydrogels, opening up numerous potential applications in regenerative medicine and surgical care, such as tissue cooling, wound care, and prevention of surgical adhesions. The method could lead to the creation of devices for various medical challenges and offers elegant solutions for urgent unmet problems in regenerative and surgical medicine.