Cell viability studies of boundary lubricant enhanced poly-vinyl alcohol hydrogels

In the development of high performance hydrogels for orthopedic application, research can yield the appropriate application of the scaffolds based on their cell viability properties. The purpose of these experiments is to determine whether novel boundary lubricant tribologically enhanced the poly-vinyl alcohol hydrogels are best suited for use as a tissue-engineering scaffold or implant. Preliminary experiments will be conducted using L929 fibroblast cells to test and streamline cell-seeding protocol. After the seeded hydrogels undergo cell viability studies, the data will determine their use as a tissue-engineering scaffold or implant. If the hydrogels produce significant cell viability then the experiments will be conducted using cartilage chondrocytes.