Potential Biosoluble Carriers: Biocompatibility and Biodegradability of Oxidized Cellulose

Abstract

The biocompatibility and biodegradability of periodate oxidized cellulose was assessed in vivo [in rats]. Morphological and histopathological studies over 6 mo. indicate that oxidized cellulose slowly degrades without producing excessive tissue reaction. Preliminary investigations on the kinetics of degradation of oxidized cellulose in vitro, immobilization of .alpha.-chymotrypsin on it and the rate of the enzyme release in a solution of pH 7.4 are also briefly reported.