In vitro biological testing in the development of new devices

One of the crucial properties that can determine cell ingrowth, proliferation within the scaffolds and integration with the surrounding tissues is the 3D porous structure of the scaffolds. in vitro models for testing the biocompatibility of biomaterials and their derivatives are used to illustrate the hidden toxic effects of leachable materials or derivatives, such as catalysts, residual monomers or other polymer erosion products. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) is a microscopic method extremely valuable in polymeric materials and structures, along with many other research areas. Another technique used to analyze the tissue formation within the scaffolds is the micro-computed tomography (micro-CT). Viability and proliferation of cells is an important parameter to consider when using cell cultures. Viability assays are used to measure the proportion of viable cells after a potentially traumatic procedure, such as primary disaggregation, cell separation, or cryopreservation. Cell proliferation can be assessed indirectly by quantifying its metabolic activity.