Mathematical Model for Microencapsulation of Pancreatic Islets within a Biofunctional PEG Hydrogel

The results of a mathematical model for surface-initiated polymerization of biofunctional PEG-based hydrogels to predict gel properties prior to synthesis is reported. The mathematical model developed in this study describes microencapsulation of islets within an insulinotropic peptide (GLP-1) functionalized PEG hydrogels. Experimental measurements of the thickness and swelling of GLP-1 functionalized hydrogel membranes compare well with the model. The model is capable of predicting the crosslink density, thickness, and the level of GLP-1 incorporation within the membrane. This study demonstrates the possibility of modulating the concentration of biological cues in highly permissive and biofunctional PEG hydrogels for optimizing engineered tissue function.