Synthesis and characterization of chemically crosslinked gelatin and chitosan to produce hydrogels for biomedical applications

Gelatin and chitosan polysaccharides were chemically modified to get methacrylate functionality to obtain biocompatible hydrogels for use as tissue engineering scaffolds. The methacrylation reaction was verified by H-1-NMR. The degree of methacrylation was varied from 7% to 40% by changing the molar ratio of polysaccharide to methacrylic anhydride and the type of polysaccharide utilized. After the modification, polysaccharide-based hydrogels were prepared by free-radical polymerization in the presence of UV light and Irgacure 184 as a photoinitiator. The physical, chemical, and mechanical performances of the hydrogels were further characterized. Also, the biodegradability and the viability of the polysaccharide hydrogels were investigated using fibroblast cells. These cells were seeded directly onto the hydrogel surface, populated the entirety of the hydrogel, and remained viable for up to 1 week. Altogether, the modified polysaccharides exhibit the properties which make them crucial for applications in the field of regenerative medicine.

Automated summary

Gelatin and chitosan polysaccharides were chemically modified to incorporate methacrylate functionality for the preparation of biocompatible hydrogels. The modified polysaccharide hydrogels exhibited good physical, chemical, and mechanical properties, with demonstrated biodegradability and cell viability. These properties make them suitable for applications in the field of regenerative medicine.