Carrageenan-Based Composites in Tissue Engineering

Carrageenan (CRG) is a high molecular weight, seaweed-derived polysaccharide that finds various applications in tissue engineering due to its water-holding capacity, sol-gel transition, degradability, mimics glycosaminoglycans, and metal chelation. It also possesses certain biological properties like antihaemolytic, antioxidant, and antimicrobial that make it ideal for tissue engineering and regenerative applications. Despite its wide range of applications, CRG has drawbacks, such as continuous ion exchange and brittleness. These limitations can be mitigated by forming composites with CRG, thereby enhancing its properties. CRG-based nanostructures and biocomposites have been extensively used in bone/cartilage tissue engineering, 3D Printing, and for the delivery of bioactive ingredients or drugs. This chapter offers a comprehensive overview on the application of CRG-based composites in various domains of tissue engineering. First, we have discussed the properties of CRG and their types, followed by their application and different modes of administration. Finally, we emphasize other biomedical applications of CRG and address the translational challenges that could restrain the use of CRG in a clinical setting.