Dual-Cross-Linked Network Hydrogels with Multiresponsive, Self-Healing, and Shear Strengthening Properties

Dual-cross-linked network (DCN) hydrogels with multi-responsive and self-healing properties are attracting intensive interests due to their enhanced mechanical strength for a wide range of applications. Herein, we developed a DCN hydrogel that combines a dynamic imine and a benzoxaboronic ester with a neutral pK(a) value (similar to 7.2) as dual linkages and contains biocompatible zwitterionic poly(2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine) [poly(MPC)] as the backbone. Oscillatory rheology result indicated shear strengthening mechanical properties compared to the singlecross-linked network (SCN) hydrogels, which use either imine bond or benzoxaboronic ester as the linkage alone. Due to the coexistence of stimuliresponsive imine and benzoxaboronic ester, the DCN hydrogels show sensitive multiple responsiveness to pH, sugar, and hydrogen peroxide. The dynamic nature of the dual linkages endows the DCN hydrogels with excellent self-healing ability after fracture. More importantly, the excellent biocompatibility and performance in three-dimensional (3D) cell encapsulation were established by a cytotoxicity Live/Dead assay, indicating DCN hydrogel's great potential as a cell culture scaffold. The biocompatible poly(MPC)-based backbone and the rapid formation of the cross-linking network make the DCN hydrogels promising candidates for future biomedical applications.

Automated summary

DCN hydrogels with multi-responsive and self-healing properties show enhanced mechanical strength and excellent cell encapsulation performance by using imine and benzoxaboronic ester as dual linkages, making them promising candidates for a wide range of biomedical applications.