Advances in cryostructures and their applications in biomedical and pharmaceutical products

Macroporous-interconnected cryostructures are prepared via a cryo-process, where polymerization and internal crosslinking are primarily conducted at the sub-freezing temperature of the medium. Due to their unique and desirable properties, the potential of cryostructures has been examined in tissue engineering, cancer research, drug delivery, and sensors/biosensors. The macroporous cryostructures assist in trafficking cells, and the interconnected macropores provide a favorable environment for attaching cells during transplantation. These properties make such structures a great candidate for the preparation of three-dimensional (3D) systems suitable for the delivery of drugs, cell culture and tissue engineering, successive production of biomolecules, and purification of macromolecules such as proteins. Cryostructures have also been studied to improve the physical, chemical, mechanical, and release properties of controlled-release pharmaceutical dosage forms. In this review, we provide deep insights into the preparation and characterization of 3D cryostructures, discuss the factors affecting their properties, and elaborate on their contemporary biomedical and pharmaceutical applications.

Automated summary

Macroporous-interconnected cryostructures are prepared through a cryo-process, where polymerization and internal crosslinking occur at sub-freezing temperatures. These structures have been extensively studied for their potential applications in tissue engineering, cancer research, drug delivery, and sensors/biosensors. With their unique properties, such as assisting cell trafficking and providing a favorable environment for cell attachment during transplantation, cryostructures are ideal for the preparation of 3D systems for drug delivery, cell culture, tissue engineering, and macromolecule purification. In addition, cryostructures have been investigated to improve the properties of controlled-release pharmaceutical dosage forms. This review provides comprehensive insights into the preparation, characterization, and various biomedical and pharmaceutical applications of 3D cryostructures.