Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of synthesis and the use of foamed, cross-linked polyurethane polymers, as a three-dimensional support called a “scaffold” for cell cultures in vitro and for in vivo implantation for the regeneration of connective tissues such as adipose tissue, osteochondral tissue and bone tissue. In particular, the invention relates to a method of preparing polymers or foamed polyurethane co polymers, having improved hydrophilia, which involves the use of two types of catalyst, one for the cross-linking reaction and one for the foaming reaction and the use of at least one polar aprotic high-boiling solvent.

Abstract: A method is described for producing a microfluidic device (19), which comprises the phases of producing a three-dimensional template (15) of geometry equal to the channelings that is desired to obtain in the device; inserting the template in the desired position into a mold (16), keeping it suspended by at least one of its end; coating said template by immersion in (or deposition of) a material in the liquid phase (or dissolved or dispersed in a solvent) capable of solidifying by means of a chemical reaction or physical transformation, forming a material constituting the body of the final device; and selectively removing the three-dimensional template. In a variant of the method, useful for the production of scaffolds to be inserted into the human body, a porogenic material is added to the liquid precursor or to the precursor solution, such that the material of the solid matrix is characterized by a continuous structure of pores into which it is possible to insert live cells.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of synthesis and the use of foamed, cross-linked polyurethane polymers, as a three-dimensional support called a “scaffold” for cell cultures in vitro and for in vivo implantation for the regeneration of connective tissues such as adipose tissue, osteochondral tissue and bone tissue. In particular, the invention relates to a method of preparing polymers or foamed polyurethane co polymers, having improved hydrophilia, which involves the use of two types of catalyst, one for the cross-linking reaction and one for the foaming reaction and the use of at least one polar aprotic high-boiling solvent.