Smart MCs Poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) is a versatile, chemically defined hydrogel precursor essential for advancing cultivated meat research. It addresses the critical need for a highly controllable, animal-origin-free scaffold that mimics the native cellular environment. This material provides researchers with a robust platform to precisely modulate mechanical and biochemical cues, which is fundamental for optimising cell proliferation and differentiation in 3D culture systems.
Composed of polyethylene glycol functionalised with acrylate groups, this specialised matrix is a biologically inert "blank slate" offering exceptional customisation. Its unique characteristic is the ability to achieve tuneable stiffness, size, and surface charge, allowing for the creation of a wide spectrum of mechanical properties. This flexibility ensures compatibility with diverse research requirements, distinguishing it from less adaptable scaffold materials.
This PEGDA matrix is validated for use in 3D cell culture, tissue engineering, and biological 3D printing applications, supporting a range of mammalian cell types. Its rapid polymerisation capabilities, minimal energy requirements, and substantial water retention make it an optimised choice for creating high-fidelity scaffolds. Furthermore, the material is highly customisable, enabling the incorporation of various biological molecules, such as cellular adhesion peptides, to support specific cell attachment needs.
The material is supplied as a research-grade reagent, strictly for scientific investigation and not intended for human application, confirming its non-food-grade status. Its inherent tuneable properties and compatibility with light-based cross-linking systems make it ideal for R&D and pilot-scale studies. While currently focused on research, the material's specialised composition and high degree of control offer a clear pathway for developing commercial-ready scaffolds for the cultivated meat industry.