Poly(trimethylene carbonate)-based polymers engineered for biodegradable functional biomaterials

Abstract

Aliphatic polycarbonates have drawn attention as biodegradable polymers that can be applied to a broad range of resorbable medical devices. In particular, poly(trimethylene carbonate) (PTMC), its copolymers, and its derivatives are currently studied due to their unique degradation characteristics that are different from those of aliphatic polyesters. Furthermore, their flexible and hydrophobic nature has driven the application of PTMC-based polymers to soft tissue regeneration and drug delivery. This review presents the diverse applications and functionalization strategies of PTMC-based materials in relation to recent advances in medical technologies and their subsequent needs in clinical settings.