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Abstract

Novel bioartificial hydrogels consisting of a three-dimensional crosslinked mixture of: (a) a bifunctionalized polyethylene oxide, activated with an activating agent, dissolved in an aqueous solution; and (b) albumin type protein. The novel hydrogels are based on the crosslinking of albumin type protein of various sources including, for example, bovine serum albumin, lactalbumin or ovalbumin, with a bifunctionalyzed polyethylene oxide, most preferably polyethylene glycol, or a mixture of bifunctionalyzed polyethylene oxides preferably polyethylene glycol, of various molecular masses (Mr 2,000 to 35,000), dissolved in aqueous solution in adequate proportions. Also provided is a method and conditions for preparing the novel hydrogels. Also divulged are a variety of biomedical applications for the novel hydrogels. Additionally, it has been found that the mechanical properties of the novel hydrogels can be improved by adding to the casting solution unreactive polyethylen glycol or other inert polymer of high molecular masses (Mr>100,000). In general terms the novel hydrogels possess advantageous properties such as shape retention and shape memory, high water content (more than 94% (w/w) based on the dry weight of the hydrogel), good mechanical and optical properties.

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