| abstract |
kits and compositions for producing an alginate gel are described. the kits and compositions comprise particles of gelling ion / soluble alginate and insoluble alginate. methods for distributing a self-gelling alginate dispersion are described. the methods comprise forming a dispersion of insoluble gelling / alginate ion particles in a solution containing soluble alginate, and distributing the dispersion, thus the dispersion forms an alginate gel matrix. methods may include distributing the dispersion over an individual's body. an alginate gel having a thickness greater than 5 mm and a homogeneous alginate matrix network and homogeneous alginate gels free from one or more of: citrate sulfates, phosphates, lactates, edta or lipids are described. implantable devices comprising a homogeneous alginate gel coating are described. methods for improving the viability of pancreatic islets, or other cellular aggregates or tissue, after isolation and during storage and transport are described. |