Internal long hone fracture fixation using bioerodible polymers based on polylactic acid, polyglycolic acid or poly-p-dioxanon have failed to provide adequate results due to either poor biocompatility, lack of adequate mechanical strength or unpredictable degradation concerns. For these reasons the first poly(anhydride-co-imides) were synthesized. However, these poly(anhydride-co-imides) contained imide ring systems that weren't biomolecule based which may also raise biocompatibility concerns. Therefore, the specific aims of this proposal are to: 1) synthesize a new generation of poly(anhydride-co-imide) polymers containing physiologically based ring systems, such as the pyrimidine rings of uracil and thymine, 2) to determine the mechanical properties of the polymers, 3) to study the degradation characteristics of the polymers in solution and in the solid state, and 4) to determine the initial biocompatibility characteristics of these polymers in vitro. The synthesis of the monomers will be conducted using pyrimidine chemistry techniques and polymerizations will be carried out using variations of techniques previously developed in Dr. Langer's laboratory. The polymer mechanical properties will be characterized by comprehensive strength, tensile strength, fracture strain, elastic moduli and tension-compression fatigue testing. The stability and degradation of the polymers will be determined by gel permeation chromatography. The biocompatibility of the polymers will be determined using bovine aortic endothelial cells and human fibroblast cells in culture. Bioerodible polymers for fracture fixation have an additional advantage over traditional metallic implants in that they could simultaneously deliver drugs to the fracture site.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS)
Type
Postdoctoral Individual National Research Service Award (F32)
Project #
5F32AR008401-02
Application #
2457937
Study Section
Pharmacology A Study Section (PHRA)
Project Start
1997-08-01
Project End
Budget Start
1997-08-01
Budget End
1998-07-31
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
1997
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Department
Engineering (All Types)
Type
Schools of Engineering
DUNS #
City
Cambridge
State
MA
Country
United States
Zip Code
02139