IMPROVED HYDROGEL COMPOSITION

摘要

This invention provides compositions for use in implanting cells into an animal comprising cells (which may be dissociated cells and/or cell aggregates); a biodegradable, biocompatible polymer which forms a hydrogel upon cross-linking by multivalent ions; a soluble salt of a multivalent ion; and a sparingly soluble salt of a multivalent ion, these components being combined into a mixture which forms a partially hardened, injectable hydrogel in which the cells are uniformly suspended, the consistency of the mixture being suitable for implanting the partially hardened hydrogel mixture into the animal, where the implanted, partially hardened hydrogel forms in situ a fully hardened hydrogel containing the cells. Preferably, the mixture also contains a biocompatible sequestrant which competes with the biocompatible polymer for binding of the multivalent cross-linking ion. The invention also provides methods for implanting cells in an animal using the composition.