The aim of the study was to develop PVA-CS hydrogel scaffolds using glutaraldehyde as a cross-linking agent by chemical cross-linking method in order to obtain biomimetic scaffolds for articular cartilage regeneration. The introduction of PVA enhances the mechanical and bioadhesive properties to the native tissue while chondroitin sulphate enhances the glycosaminoglycan content of extracellular matrix. The role of hydrogel as cartilage regeneration scaffold was evaluated by swelling study, porosity, rheological behaviour, in vitro degradation, and quantification of released chondroitin sulphate. In vivo results showed that cross-linked hydrogels repaired defects with no sign of inflammation as it was well anchored to tissue in the formation of new articular surface. It may be concluded that the addition of chondroitin sulphate to the PVA polymer develops a novel composite with significant applications in cartilage tissue engineering. 1. Introduction Hydrogels are naturally derived macromolecules having characteristic features like biocompatibility, cell-controlled degradability, and intrinsic cellular interaction which ultimately influence their application in tissue engineering, particularly for growth of new tissues [1, 2]. Hydrogels are mostly favourable for promoting cell migration, angiogenesis, high water content, and enhanced nutrient diffusion [3]. Hydrogels are prepared from synthetic or natural polymers, which are cross-linked through either covalent or noncovalent bonds [4]. Articular cartilage injuries are major concern in today’s clinical practice. Current surgical techniques to repair osteochondral defects are associated with poor cartilage regeneration and tissue formation which results in joint pain and stiffness. The lack of vascularisation of the articular cartilage, however, prevents the development of an inflammatory response which limits the spontaneous repair [5]. This drawback has shifted research interest towards the field of biomaterials and bioengineering, where it is hoped that the cartilage repair can be tackled with the help of tissue engineering. Polymeric scaffolds include biomaterials designing by incorporating the desired guest molecules to promote cell survival and tissue regeneration [6]. The hydrogel scaffolds are used in the engineering of replacement connective tissues which is primarily due to their biochemical similarity to the highly hydrated GAG components of connective tissues. Scaffolds have got attention due to their ability to mimic the mechanical and biological properties of the tissue matrix and thus
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