Synthesis, characterization and cytotoxicity of novel modified poly[(maleic anhydride)-co-(vinyl acetate)]/noradrenaline conjugate

Poly[(maleic anhydride)-co-(vinyl acetate)] (MAVA) copolymer was synthesized by free radical polymerization reaction, in methyl ethyl ketone at 80 degrees C, using benzoyl peroxide as the initiator. The copolymer was then modified with a biomolecule, noradrenaline (NA). The modification reaction was performed at 70 degrees C in dimethylformamide containing triethylamine as the catalyst. The modified polymer was named MAVA/NA. Structural characterization of the copolymer and the modified product was carried out by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and 1H NMR and 13C NMR spectroscopy. The FTIR, 1H NMR and 13C NMR spectra confirmed that NA was successfully covalently bound to the MAVA copolymer backbone. Surface morphology was visualized by atomic force microscopy. The cumulative release of NA from MAVA/NA was determined in phosphate buffered saline solution for 7 days at 37 degrees C and compared with MAVA. Cytotoxicity of the MAVA/NA was evaluated by using a mouse fibroblast cell line (L929). Results obtained indicated that MAVA/NA had almost no toxicity and no negative effect on cell viability at 250 mu g mL1 concentration. (c) 2012 Society of Chemical Industry