Development of plant-based scaffolds for cell culture on cultured meat

Abstract

Hydrogel scaffolds were synthesized using plant-based materials for this study. The aim was to establish a protocol to synthesize hydrogels and to investigate the various properties of hydrogels. Therefore, this report presents a study of synthesis and characterisation and the final protocol for a plant-based scaffold (hydrogel).

Characterisation methods employed were the Degradation Weight Loss Test, Swelling Degree Test, and Rheology. The Degradation Weight Loss Test was used to find out if the hydrogels can last through the estimated time of proliferation and differentiation of about 21 days without degrading. The Swelling Degree Test was utilised to evaluate the water retention rate and the control for release patterns (examine how quickly cells can proliferate). Rheology was conducted to evaluate the viscosity, shear stress, storage modulus, and loss modulus properties of the hydrogel.

The characterisation techniques have provided evidence that the hydrogels synthesized in this project are viable but further work is required.