[Fabrication and characteristics of oriental poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) scaffold: a preliminary study].

OBJECTIVE: To explore the method of fabricating oriental scaffolds and investigate the biocompatibility of the scaffolds as well as cells distribution within the scaffolds in vitro. METHODS: The oriental poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) scaffolds were fabricated with modified emulsion-phase separation method. The scaffolds were treated with plasma and then anchored with collagen I. Articular chondrocytes were loaded into the scaffolds. The growth status and distributing characteristic of the cells were investigated by environmental scanning electron microscope. RESULTS: The scaffold was well compatible with the articular chondrocytes. The cells could reach to 2.5 mm depth with unilateral loading. The cells distributed evenly in the scaffold and lined along the inner pipes. CONCLUSIONS: The oriental scaffold fabricated could significantly promote the distributing characteristics of the chondrocytes. The vertical alignment of the chondrocytes within the scaffold is closely similar to that of articular cartilage.

[Drug release and biocompatibility of cyclosporine A drug delivery system implanting into the anterior chamber].

OBJECTIVE: To study the drug concentration in the aqueous humor and the biocompatibility of cyclosporine A drug delivery system (CsA DDS) implanting in the anterior chamber. METHODS: There were four different types of CsA DDS which had different biodegradable polymers as the vector or had different ratio between CsA and the vector. Thirty-six New Zealand rabbits were randomly divided into 4 groups to receive the 4 different types of CsA DDS. Three of nine New Zealand rabbits received CsA DDS in one eye and empty DDS in the contralateral eye. Three rabbits received empty DDS in one eye and keratotomy in the contralateral eye. Another three rabbits received CsA DDS in one eye and keratotomy in the contralateral eye. All DDS were implanted into the anterior chamber. The follow-up period was 12 weeks. RESULTS: No significantly acute or chronic intraocular toxic effects were found in all groups. The CsA release rate was different in these 4 groups. In type A and B CsA DDS, the drug released fast and maintained for a short period; in type C and D, the drug released slowly and could be maintained for a long period. CONCLUSION: CsA DDS implanted in the anterior chamber can be well tolerated in rabbit eyes. CsA DDS is a promising approach for the prevention (type C and D CsA DDS) and treatment (type A and B CsA DDS) of corneal graft rejection.