Polymers animal model assessing

The aim of this chapter is to highlight recent advances in fractionation techniques for grape seed PAs, using as examples methods we are using for large-scale fractionation into monomers, oligomers, and polymers for assessment of bioactivity and bioavailability in animal model studies of Alzheimer s disease. Our methods represent modifications/combinations of previously described approaches. We first discuss the available methods and modifications and then present a case study for the fractionation of MegaNatural-AZ GSE. 

Members of the biomaterials community continue to search for experimental animal models that assess the thromboresistance of polymers. We developed a new animal model involving rapid, simple retrograde cannu-lation of the goat s carotid arteries. The method promises to assess potential biomaterials, evaluate drugs that may decrease thrombus growth, and measure real-time thrombus growth and dissolution. A critical aspect of this new experimental model is that the continuously monitored net platelet retention data can be modeled mathematically. 

Gupta, R.K. Griffin, P.J. Rivera, R. Siber, G.R. Development of an animal model to assess the immu-nogenicity of single-dose tetanus and diphtheria vaccines based on controlled release from biodegradable polymer microspheres. Dev. Biol. Stand. 1998, 92, 277-287. 

For many water-insoluble polymers the Immune response, if any, is more difficult to evaluate. Recently, Habal and coworkers (]JL) have reported a method to assess the effect of solid implant materials such as silicone, segmented polyether-polyurethane, polyCmethyl methacrylate), and Bioglas using tumor-bearing mice as the experimental model. They have found that the B-cells from the test animals showed a reduced capacity for proliferation when stimulated by mitogens as compared to the controls. The results demonstrate once again that even the relatively biocompatible solid polymers may have a measurable effect on the immune system. 

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