Abstract: Multicoated or multilayer matrices capable of embedding, encapsulating or entrapping binding proteins, optionally with a reporter group attached, specific for analytes of interest, in particular sugars, and methods of making and using such matrices.

Abstract: The invention features methods of making living tissue constructs having a predetermined shape by providing a negative mold having a defined shape; suspending isolated tissue precursor cells in a hydrogel to form a liquid hydrogel-precursor cell composition; introducing the liquid hydrogel-precursor cell composition into the mold; inducing gel formation to solidify the liquid hydrogel-precursor cell composition to form a living tissue construct; and removing the living tissue construct from the mold after gel formation.

Abstract: A programmable scaffold which is a three-dimensional scaffold having interconnected pore structures and biologically active molecules physically entrapped therein. Preferably, the scaffold is a lyophilized hydrogel of crosslinked alginate or hyaluronic acid. The scaffold can be arrayed on a platform and loaded with various combinations of biologically active molecules for high throughput and high parallel screening and tissue engineering. A method for making and modifying the scaffold having steps of impregnating the scaffold with solutions of biologically active molecule and lyophilizing the impregnated scaffold.

Abstract: Materials which contain polysaccharide chains, particularly alginate or modified alginate chains. The polysaccharide chains may be included as side chains or auxiliary chains from a backbone polymer chain, which may also be a polysaccharide. Further, the polysaccharide chains may be cross-linked between side chains, auxiliary chains and/or backbone chains. These materials and non-modified or otherwise modified alginate materials are advantageously modified by covalent bonding thereto of a biologically active molecule for cell adhesion or other cellular interaction. Processes for preparation of these alginate materials and methods for using them, particularly for cell transplantation and tissue engineering applications.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods and devices which can be used to test bioactive agents alone or in conjunction with 3D scaffolds for their effect on cell growth, differentiation, and other cellular functions.

Abstract: This invention is directed to a new approach to form porous hydrogel materials by first creating gas pockets in the gel and then removing this gas. The removal of the gas creates a porous material, and the initial incorporation of sufficient gas allows one to create a material with an open, interconnected pore structure. Advantageous features of the resulting materials, in addition to their interconnected pore structure, may include that the pore structure is maintained over extended time periods and that the gels maintain a high mechanical integrity that allows seeding with cells and implantation without destruction or compression of the material.

Abstract: The invention features methods of making living tissue constructs having a predetermined shape by providing a negative mold having a defined shape; suspending isolated tissue precursor cells in a hydrogel to form a liquid hydrogel-precursor cell composition; introducing the liquid hydrogel-precursor cell composition into the mold; inducing gel formation to solidify the liquid hydrogel-precursor cell composition to form a living tissue construct; and removing the living tissue construct from the mold after gel formation.