Novel citric acid-based biodegradable elastomers for tissue engineering

The synthesis and characterization of novel biodegradable elastomers, exemplified by poly(1,8-octanediol-co-citric acid), is reported. Biodegradation, mechanical, and biocompatibility data suggest very good potential for use as porous scaffolds in cardiovascular tissue engineering (see Figure). Material properties can be tailored by modulating the monomer ratio and post-polymerization conditions.