Sample interview questions: How do you assess the biocompatibility and biodegradability of materials in your research?
Sample answer:
Biocompatibility Assessment:
- Cytotoxicity assays: Determine the toxicity of materials to living cells, assessing parameters such as cell viability, proliferation, and morphology. Common methods include MTT, Alamar Blue, and LDH assays.
- Hemolysis assays: Evaluate the potential of materials to induce red blood cell damage, indicating potential incompatibilities with blood-contacting applications. Spectrophotometric techniques are employed to measure hemoglobin release.
- Implantation studies: In vivo assessment of tissue response to implanted materials over time. Parameters evaluated include inflammation, fibrosis, and cell infiltration.
- Immune response evaluation: Assess the ability of materials to trigger immune reactions, such as the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and activation of immune cells. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) and flow cytometry are commonly used.
Biodegradability Assessment:
- Enzymatic degradation assays: Determine the ability of enzymes (e.g., proteases, lipases) to degrade materials over time. Degradation rates are measured through weight loss, material integrity, or release of degradation products.
- Hydrolytic degradation studies: Assess the materials’ s… Read full answer
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