Bioresorbable Polymers Can Replace Damaged Tissues and Aid in Treatment of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Osteoarthritis, and Other Arthritic Conditions

 

With the advancement of technology and new discoveries in biotechnology, the world is gradually seeing the birth of new medical technologies. Bioresorbable polymer material is one such breakthrough, which promises to revolutionize the way we use and take care of our bodies. These polymers, also known as biodegradable polymers, are polymer materials, which can be safely absorbed by the body. Natural biodegradable polymers include chitosan, collagen, chitin, alginate, and gelatin.

Collagen is a naturally occurring substance in the body that serves as a structural tissue. As we age, our body produces less collagen leading to the deterioration of our joints. Biodegradable chitosan derivatives have the ability to substitute collagen in body tissues thus replacing joints damaged by age or disease. Bioresorbable polymers can replace damaged tissues so as to make it functional again. Biodegradable chitosan derivatives are majorly used in alternative medical treatments for the treatment of arthritic conditions, chronic fatigue syndrome and osteoarthritis.

The chitosan derivative polymer is a key ingredient in the topical gel used in treating various skin conditions including acne, burns, eczema, rosacea and varicose veins. Further development of this material can also aid in the study of other important natural components like Vitamin C, collagen and other protein molecules. The chitosan-derivatives present in bioresorbable polymers offer good flexibility, similar to silicone but with the benefit of being able to be applied to the skin's surface with ease. These materials are also free from the side effects commonly associated with silicone gel implants such as swelling, itching and redness. Thus, these can serve as the most cost effective and safest option in the field of tissue engineering.

Since the chitosan derivatives used in biodegradation polymeric materials are in the form of a gel, they can easily enter the bloodstream where they can help regenerate cartilage and promote the formation of new tissue. This will help improve cartilage mechanics and reduce pain caused by damaged joints. In addition to serving as scaffolding for the body to grow new tissues, the chitosan-derivatives can be added into the body of patients undergoing medical treatments to increase their chances of being absorbed and used by the body. With the use of these biodegradable materials, researchers can now study the regenerative properties of collagen and other biological material. They can even make a few improvements in existing tissue through this procedure.

Bioresorbable polymers also have potential as viable alternatives to traditional petroleum-based plastics. In European countries, such as the U.K. and Germany, there has been an increase in interest in such materials in various sector including healthcare, packaging, and agriculture. This can be attributed to increasing concerns for environmental and waste management issues and adverse effects of fossil fuels on the environment. Such scenario has led to significant development in degradable polymers. For instance, in October 2020, LG Chem developed a new biodegradable material that can be used for plastic bags, air cap buffers, disposable cups and foaming products because of improved flexibility and transparency.