In situ cross-linkable novel alginate-dextran methacrylate IPN hydrogels for biomedical applications: mechanical characterization and drug delivery properties

Biomacromolecules. 2008 Jul;9(7):2014-20. doi: 10.1021/bm800252c. Epub 2008 Jun 18.

Abstract

In situ polymerizable hydrogels are extensively investigated to implement new biomedical and pharmaceutical approaches. In the present paper a novel polysaccharidic matrix based on calcium alginate (Ca(II)-Alg) hydrogel and dextran methacrylate derivative (Dex-MA), showing potential applicability in the field of pharmaceutics is described. The semi-interpenetrating polymer system (semi-IPN) obtained by a dispersion of Dex-MA chains into a Ca(II) hydrogel leads to a hydrogel with rheological properties quite different from those of Ca(II)-Alg, allowing to inject the semi-IPN easily through an hypodermic needle. The UV curing of the semi-IPN, by cross-linking of the methacrylate moieties, leads to an IPN strong hydrogel that can be used for a modulated delivery of bioactive molecules. In the present paper, rheological and mechanical behaviors of the semi-IPN and of the IPN are discussed. The release of model molecules, including a protein, are also presented to show the suitability of the novel system as a drug delivery system.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Alginates
  • Dextrans
  • Drug Carriers / chemical synthesis*
  • Drug Delivery Systems*
  • Glucuronic Acid
  • Hexuronic Acids
  • Hydrogels / chemical synthesis*
  • Methacrylates
  • Rheology

Substances

  • Alginates
  • Dextrans
  • Drug Carriers
  • Hexuronic Acids
  • Hydrogels
  • Methacrylates
  • methacrylated dextran
  • Glucuronic Acid