Toward a Natural Alternative: Whey-Pectin Scaffolds for Breast Tissue Reconstruction
Alexander, Samantha
Alexander, Samantha
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Abstract
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women, and many patients undergo mastectomy followed by reconstruction using synthetic implants. While effective, these implants can cause complications such as inflammation, discomfort, and poor integration with tissue. As a result, there is growing interest in developing biomaterials that better mimic the structure and function of natural breast tissue. This study investigates a whey�pectin hydrogel scaffold as a potential natural alternative for soft tissue reconstruction, with potential for cell integration. A hydrogel composed of whey protein isolate and pectin was prepared, molded, and heat-cured to form three-dimensional scaffolds. The resulting hydrogels formed stable structures that resembled soft tissue. Testing showed that the gel, when made under optimized conditions, behaved very similarly to real human fat tissue. It also maintained its shape after formation and could be molded using 3D-printed designs, suggesting potential for patient-specific customization. These findings suggest that whey�pectin hydrogels are a promising, biocompatible alternative to synthetic implants. By closely mimicking the physical properties of adipose tissue, this scaffold has potential applications in regenerative medicine and breast reconstruction. Future work will focus on evaluating cellular interactions to determine its ability to support tissue growth and integration.
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Date
01/01/2026
Student Status
Junior (Graduating in 2027)
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Poster
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Program/Major
Biological Science
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College of Arts and Sciences
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Clinical Science